School of Sanctuary

Calderdale Valley of Sanctuary is a charity that offers a a place of safety for refugees. To find out more, please visit the Calderdale Valley of Sanctuary website.

The Greetland Academy has become a member of Calderdale Valley of Sanctuary which looks at promoting a culture of welcome for refugees and people seeking sanctuary in Calderdale. As part of this, we have started the process to become a School of Sanctuary.

A School of Sanctuary:

  • Is place of welcome for all.
  • Educates about why people are forcibly displaced.
  • Recognises that the UK is enriched by new arrivals.
  • Supports pupils from all backgrounds to feel seen, supported and included.

We believe that the School of Sanctuary award will broaden our children’s knowledge and acceptance of the diverse world that we live in. It will enable us to:

  • Reflect on our own curriculum
  • Ensure our school and community know what it means to be seeking sanctuary
  • Discuss the issues surrounding people who are seeking sanctuary
  • Look at how to support those who are seeking sanctuary within the school community

On Friday 13th June, we celebrated ‘A Day of Welcome’ in school. A Day of Welcome is a day of solidarity and learning in schools that aims to build a culture of welcome and understanding for refugees and asylum seekers.

Visit to St Augustine’s Centre

Our Year 5 and 6 School Councillors recently visited St Augustine’s Centre in Halifax, where they delivered Christmas present donations collected by our community. During their visit, our pupils were given a guided tour of the centre and learned about the vital support it provides for people seeking asylum.

The centre offers a wide range of services, including practical assistance, educational opportunities, and a welcoming environment that fosters dignity and belonging. This experience gave our pupils valuable insight into the challenges faced by those seeking refuge, as well as the importance of compassion and solidarity in building inclusive communities.

We are proud of our pupils for representing our school with generosity and respect, and we extend our gratitude to St Augustine’s Centre for the inspiring work they do.

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