YOUNGSTERS learned the importance of foreign languages at a special event.

St Thomas More High School for Boys, Westcliff, held an international activity day after hearing it had won an International School Award from the British Council for its excellent language tuition.

Highlights of the day included a French cafe for Year 7 pupils, where they were could exchange dummy euros for goods and speak French. Pupils were also given prizes for saying greetings in a European language.

Other activities over the past year include foreign trips, collaborative work with partner schools and regular assemblies on international themes.

Emma O’Neill, head of languages, said: “These activities have enabled our pupils to discover more about global issues, to celebrate the rich and diverse heritage represented in our school and in local and national communities.”