Since October 2022, Reading School began the process of becoming an accredited School of Sanctuary by signing the City of Sanctuary UK organisational pledge. By signing the pledge, we have affirmed our commitment to fostering a culture of welcoming, inclusion and belonging within the school community and wider society.
The organisation pledge states that:
“We support the ‘City of Sanctuary’ vision that the UK will be a welcoming place of safety for all and proud to offer sanctuary to people fleeing violence and persecution. We endorse the City of Sanctuary Charter, and agree to act in accordance with City of Sanctuary values and apply the network principles within our work (as far as our specific context enables us to). We recognise the contribution of people seeking sanctuary. Sanctuary seekers are welcomed, included and supported within our context.”
Since October 2022, we have sought to demonstrate how we share the Schools of Sanctuary values of inclusiveness, openness, participation, inspiration and integrity by sharing what we are already doing, as well as starting new initiatives. Examples of how we can evidence our commitment to these values include our programme of hosting Ukrainian students as guests, providing academic and extra-curricular support for children seeking asylum during after-school clubs, as well as raising awareness of the issues faced by those seeking refuge within our curriculum.
We are very keen for this project to be driven collectively by staff, students, parents, governors and partners. If there are any projects that you are already involved with that demonstrate these values, or you are keen to be involved in this process, please contact with Mr Luteijn by emailing kluteijn@reading-school.co.uk
More information about the award can be found on the website - Schools of Sanctuary | Building a culture of hospitality for people seeking sanctuary
