CHILDREN from an Abbey Meads primary school are playing host to a week of international flavour.

Youngsters from Catherine Wayte School in Elstree Way are experiencing cultures, costumes, foods, music and entertainment from around the world as part of multicultural week.

"It's about being a part of a broad and balanced society, developing skills, respect and co-operation, and not being fearful of other cultures and religions," said deputy headteacher Emma Brown.

Each year group has been assigned one of five different countries - Japan, Ghana, India, China and France.

The school itself is no stranger to diversity, housing pupils from 17 different countries, and teaching those whose first languages include Nepalese, Japanese, Dutch and Tamil.

Japanese car manufacturer Honda has sent employees to talk to the children, while members from a local martial arts group and Japanese mums have come in to talk about the kimono, and Japanese food and culture.

"We've had African musicians in to demonstrate native drumming and the children have been cooking traditional Indian foods," explained Mrs Brown.

"The pressure of the national curriculum means children need to understand their role within this ever-widening global community.

"Although skimming the surface, multicultural week is an insight into how lucky the children are."