Schoolchildren in Stoke Newington have more reason than most to celebrate Barack Obama’s historic inauguration as US President next Tuesday (20).

Students at the Clissold Road school have just formed strong ties with fellow pupils in Kenya, homeland of Mr Obama’s father.

Rata Secondary School in Kisumu is less than 30 miles from where the first black President’s father was born and where his grandmother still lives.

The two schools have been partnered through a linking project run by charity Plan UK, aimed at boosting learning and life experiences for students.

Stoke Newington student Matthew, aged 12, said: “I think that Obama’s election will encourage schoolchildren in Kenya to work harder and to aspire to be like him. I think they’re proud that he came from where they are.”

And fellow 7G pupil Lily, aged 11, said: “I think Obama’s election is good because he can change the country for the better.

“America is the most important country and has an effect on others so he can change the world by being a good role model for people.

Classmate Tasnim, aged 11, said: “I think that Obama can stop racism around the world, especially in America and here.”

Students at Stoke Newington and Rata will exchange letters as part of the link, to exchange stories about life in their respective countries.

Stoke Newington student Mumin, aged 11, said: “I want to learn more about the lives of our linked children – if they have more homework or different homework.”

They will also discuss issues to help with their learning and curriculum activities, such as the impact and how to combat climate change.

Mohammed, aged 11, said: “Life is a lot more difficult in the poorest countries and they don’t have many things. They have different jobs and less jobs.” For more children's reactions to the elections why not check out the BBC World Class site