Cheshire: School supports refugees through powerful project

Pupils worked together to create a project of hope, faith and support

Students at a primary school in Ellesmere Port recently took part in an inspiring project as part of their education about social justice. As an accredited Rights Respecting School, St Bernard's RC Primary strives to inform its students about the Rights of the Child. The initiative, created by UNICEF, encourages schools to protect, respect, and promote children's rights.

The 'Everyone's Welcome' project at St Bernard's explored this topic and how it links to the plight of refugees in particular. Through discussions, research, and reading, children learnt about the experiences of refugees and talked about how they can show their support.

Key Stage 1 learnt about the Paddington Bear's journey from Peru to London, focusing on the idea of home and what belongings mean the most to them.

After reading 'The Silence Seeker', children in Year 3 felt very motivated and proactively worked as a team to design something uplifting for those in the refugee community. Together, they created a variety of 'welcome boxes' and inside were messages and images representing hope, love, and faith.

Classes in Year 5 and 6 expressed their support through creativity. Year 5 utilised their DT skills to create a range of pencil frames; containing written ways they could aid refugees. Year 6 produced stunning pieces of art to reflect freedom after being inspired by the book 'Dreams of Freedom' which signifies the importance of having the freedom to be educated, safe, and yourself.

Additionally, all pupils expressed their appreciation for what they have through poetry, highlighting what home means to them. They also wrote thoughtful and caring prayers for the refugee community.

Following the completion of the project, the work of the whole school was exhibited in the hall, with families and visitors invited to view it.

It was an impactful event. Guests felt moved by pieces pupils created and left feeling more driven to help those in need and more educated about the lives of those who seek asylum.

St Bernard's RC Primary also created a YouTube video to showcase students' work and motivate others to spread the word about how the refugee community can be welcomed and assisted. It included hopeful quotes, messages, and informative figures.

Mrs Julie Le Feuvre, Head of School, said: "Everyone's Welcome was motivating and eye-opening for all involved. Our pupils were very interested in learning about the experiences of refugees and eager to get started on the project. We are so proud of the care, creativity, and kindness that they have demonstrated.

"As a Rights Respecting School, we are dedicated to educating our pupils about their rights, but also about the difficulties that other children and people may face, and how we can come together to support them."

LINKS

St Bernard's RC Primary School: www.stbernardsrc.co.uk for more information.
Holy Family Catholic Multi Academy Trust: www.hfcmat.com