Schools lending their support to refugees

Our local schools have provided fantastic support for refugee children for some time but their response and support for Ukrainian children has been extraordinary.

Many of our local schools have Ukrainian children on roll. These children are able to continue their education, learn English, maintain friendships and grow up in a safe environment.

The schools have made many adaptations to provide support including extra classes, social events and helping children with the trauma that many of them faced when they were attacked and had to flee their homes.

The children have shown remarkable resilience and strength in the process. Often having English as a second or third language they are being educated in that language and are often supporting their family with translations and interactions.

There are many stories to share about how the secondary schools of Shaftesbury and Gillingham and the primary schools, in the towns and villages, have provided a safe educational environment and some semblance of normality for the 60 plus children on roll .

State funded and private sector schools have contributed hugely to the welfare of the Ukrainian community since last year as this video from Clayesmore illustrates.

We thank all the governors, headteachers, teachers, support staff and children who have provided a warm welcome and safe environment for refugees from across the world. Your work makes a massive difference!