On Friday the 12th of June, everyone in the Schools of Sanctuary programme celebrated A Day of Welcome. This is a day of solidarity and learning in schools that aims to build a culture of welcome and understanding for refugees and asylum seekers. The children in school and at home learned more about why and how refugees travel to our country and how we can make them feel more welcome. They listened to stories and experiences from refugees. They also created their own Welcome posters to show that everyone is welcome within our school community. Now that the school is recognised as a School of Sanctuary, we will continue to celebrate our diverse community throughout the next academic year.

Angel Road Infant and Nursery School has a Schools of Sanctuary status, an award which is given to schools who are committed to being a safe and welcoming place for all, especially those seeking sanctuary. This could be people whose lives were in danger in their own country, who have troubles at home or are just looking for a space of safety.

Every year we hold events which celebrated our school as a place of diversity and sanctuary for all, including Belonging Day, our Bring and Share meal and Refugee Week activities. We hope you can join us to meet other parents.

There is also a Schools of Sanctuary noticeboard in the corridor opposite the children’s kitchen. This will be updated regularly and is a place to find out information if you need support with English skills, information on local refugee charities, such as New Routes www.newroutes.org.uk  that we have links with, and events that are happening in school.

Angel Road Schools staff enjoying our Bring and Share Meal