Sanctuary blog:
As part of our learning for Refugee Week, our Key Stage 2 children were privileged to welcome a local voluntary organisation into school for a truly inspiring and thought-provoking assembly.
The session aimed to deepen the children's understanding of what it means to be a refugee, helping them to explore the challenges, resilience and courage that many people demonstrate when forced to leave their homes and rebuild their lives elsewhere.
Through eye-opening statistics, meaningful discussions and informative insights into the work of the organisation, the children gained a greater appreciation of the support available to individuals and families seeking safety and a fresh start. The assembly encouraged children to reflect on the experiences of others and consider how circumstances beyond a person's control can dramatically change their lives.
A particularly powerful moment came when Parissa, a volunteer with the organisation, shared her own personal journey. Having left Iran and arrived in the UK during the Covid-19 pandemic, she spoke openly and honestly about the challenges she faced while rebuilding her life in a new country. She described learning a new language, making friends, adapting to a different culture and finding employment, whilst also coping with the loss of everything familiar that she had left behind.
Parissa's moving account brought the realities of displacement to life and helped our children to develop a deeper sense of empathy, compassion and understanding. Her courage, determination and positivity left a lasting impression on everyone who attended.
Her story is just one among millions and we are confident that our children left the assembly with a greater appreciation of the diverse experiences of people around the world, as well as a renewed understanding of the importance of kindness, inclusion and community.
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Parissa and Katie for sharing their time, experiences and expertise with us. It was a memorable and impactful experience that perfectly reflected the values we strive to nurture in our school community.
