Martin Bell visits Reepham High School, which has been awarded International School status. (Picture by Colin Finch)

Reepham High School was praised for its work in building international links by Unicef ambassador and former war correspondent Martin Bell. `The man in the white suit' made the comments as he formally awarded British Council International School status to Reepham High School.

The accolade recognises the school's work with countries around the globe, stretching as far as India and Vietnam.

Mr Bell, who has also served as an MP told pupils at a special assembly that the work they were doing was crucial. "This is a fantastic reward, and it comes because you reach out to other people in other countries."There is a place for pride for where people live, and that is probably in sport. When England play Germany you want England to win, and when Norwich play Ipswich you want Norwich to win. "But we need to support the people in Germany as our brothers and sisters, and even the people in Ipswich. "I started as a war correspondent in Vietnam and ended in Bosnia. I know the nature of war. There are more and more wars across the world. "But individuals can make a difference - you can make a difference."

Headteacher Chris Hassell detailed the projects the school had been involved in. For the past six years the school has staged joint visits to the Ypres battlefields with German students and held joint remembrance services with pupils and teachers from across Europe. Pupils have taken part in visits across Europe, and exchanged teachers with partner schools. The school supports a child in India and a village in Vietnam.

Jack Taylor, 14, from Reepham, said: "I went to Barcelona and I went to Germany and stayed with a family there. It was just like living at home, but it makes you understand the cultures and countries better."

The Headmaster; Mr. Chris Hassell received the award from Mr. Blunket on the 8th December 1999 in London.