# data[].attributes.headline
Festival of Languages 2026 final report published

# data[].attributes.subject
Festival of Languages 2026 final report published

# data[].attributes.body
Available now – the report of this year’s Festival of Languages. Celebrating the North East’s diverse languages and cultures and our connections to the world for children and young people aged 3-18. It was our biggest and best Festival yet - thanks to all who took part! Click here to find out more and download the report: https://expressyourselfne.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/2026-FESTIVAL-REPORT-Express-Yourself-North-East-Festival-of-Languages.pdf

# data[].attributes.body
Sharing the multilingual recipe book. In these recipes, pupils from North East schools share their favourite family recipes and why they are important to them, using a language other than English: https://internationalnewcastle.org.uk/world-recipe-book

# data[].attributes.headline
Celebrate European Day of Languages with UK schools' writing competition

# data[].attributes.subject
Celebrate European Day of Languages with UK schools' writing competition

# data[].attributes.body
Schools are encouraged to get involved with the annual European Day of Languages writing competition: Download the competition pack, including guidelines and entry form: https://internationalnewcastle.org.uk/edol-2026

Pupils at any key stage can create a piece of text in a language they are learning (other than English) with an illustration on the theme of A few words that mean so much, exploring how carefully chosen words can make a difference to someone who reads them.

Other links to EU resources are also available for schools at the link.

# data[].attributes.headline
Watch the joyous performances of our Festival song, ‘Love is the Only River’

# data[].attributes.subject
Watch the joyous performances of our Festival song, ‘Love is the Only River’

# data[].attributes.body
We are delighted to share the film of the region’s children and young people singing this year’s Festival song. 5,694 children and young people from 56 North East schools took part. They celebrated the region’s diverse languages and culture together in joyous multilingual renditions of ‘Love is the only river’. https://internationalnewcastle.org.uk/festival-song26

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
We are delighted to share the film of the region's children and young people singing this year's Festival song. 5,694 children and young people from 56 North East schools took part. They celebrated the region's diverse languages and culture together in joyous multilingual renditions of 'Love is the only river'.

Translations in 20 languages (including British Sign Language) provided by community and University partners and musical arrangements from Newcastle Music Service were provided to registered schools.

21 schools sent in videos of their performances, which were combined by Newcastle Music Service to produce the regional multilingual version of the song.
Click here to watch the video

The festival song fosters inclusiveness and allows children and young people from diverse communities across the North East to connect with the lyrics and emotions more deeply. The different translations broaden the song's reach for our multicultural region, inviting participants from various cultural backgrounds to feel a shared connection to the music. It showcases the festival's cultural respect and celebration, enhancing the global appeal.

Georgina Biddle, Newcastle Music Service (North East Music Hub), who oversees the ever-popular Festival Song project.

Once again, children and young people from schools across the North East have delivered beautiful renditions of the Festival Song. It is so moving to see so many singing, signing and playing the song. The Festival is all about children and young people being able to express themselves in the languages they speak at home, learn at school or are interested in, bringing people together and foster inclusivity and harmony. This song is a wonderful example of this. We are so grateful to everyone who took part and to all those who helped in preparing all the resources for the song this year.
Declan Baharini, Chief Executive Officer of International Newcastle and Festival Coordinator
Acknowledgements

Thank you to all 56 schools, the teachers and pupils who took part in the Festival Song project this year and those who submitted their pupils' performances to be part of our regional compilation video for 2026.

A huge thank you to Gareth Miller and Georgina Biddle at Music Partnership North Newcastle, for leading this project and supporting the schools' engagement. The Festival Song would not be possible without them. Special additional thanks to Gareth for putting the regional compilation of performances together.

Thank you to all the community members, staff and students at universities and people from partner organisations across the region, nationally and internationally for helping to check the translations of the song in 20 different languages and for providing recordings of these to help schools learn the song in many languages.

Tagged creative multilingual projects, Express Yourself: North East Festival of Languages, Festival Song, HHCL, Home Heritage and Community Languages, Ian Sloane, international, International Newcastle, ks2, KS3, KS4, KS5, Love is the Only River, March, MFL, middle schools, music, Music Partnership North Newcastle, North East, primary schools, secondary schools. Modern Foreign Languages, Trinity Rose

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Watch the joyous performances of our Festival song, 'Love is the Only River' - International Newcastle

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We are delighted to share the film of the region's children and young people singing this year's Festival song. 5,694 children and young people from...

# data[].attributes.headline
2026 Festival multilingual Mother Tongue Other Tongue digital anthology

# data[].attributes.subject
2026 Festival multilingual Mother Tongue Other Tongue digital anthology

# data[].attributes.body
We are delighted to share the Mother Tongue Other Tongue 2026 e-book, a digital anthology showcasing North East children and young people’s writing and creativity. 3,960 children and young people from 30 schools took part in this creative multilingual project as part of our Express Yourself: North East Festival of Languages this year. The anthology includes poems written in 46 different languages spoken at home or being learned. https://internationalnewcastle.org.uk/mtot26-anthology

# data[].attributes.headline
Live assembly recordings for Refugee week for Primary and Secondary 

# data[].attributes.subject
Live assembly recordings for Refugee week for Primary and Secondary 

# data[].attributes.body
Primary School Great Big Live Assembly ( recording )
Secondary School Great Big Live Assembly ( recording)
No Place Like Home - Prize Giving British Library ) ( recording )

# data[].attributes.body
Ahead of the FIFA 2026 World Cup, UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is announcing a symbolic team of global football players with a refugee or displacement background, highlighting what is possible when young people displaced by war and persecution find safety, opportunity, and welcome. UNHCR / FC BAYERN / CANADA SOCCER / RÜDIGER FOUNDATION

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Ahead of the FIFA 2026 World Cup, UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is announcing a symbolic team of global football players with a refugee or displacement background, highlighting what is possible when young people displaced by war and persecution find safety, opportunity, and welcome. UNHCR / FC BAYERN / CANADA SOCCER / RÜDIGER FOUNDATION

# data[].attributes.headline
Poetry written by pupils and read by famous people

# data[].attributes.subject
Poetry written by pupils and read by famous people

# data[].attributes.body
We are delighted to share some free resources you can use this week to help spread awareness, understanding, empathy and courage during Refugee Week 2026.

Over 300 schools took part in our events this year, with a self-reported attendance of more than 54,971 students. We hope the recordings and resources below are useful for your schools community.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
NPLH 2026 -  "There is Always a Way Home" by Daryna read by Juliet Stevenson

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Secondary School Great Big Live Assembly: World Refugee Day 2026

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Join us for special live school assembly to mark World Refugee Day

# data[].attributes.headline
Great big assembly Football and refugees

# data[].attributes.subject
Great big assembly Football and refugees

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Primary School Great Big Live Assembly: World Refugee Day 2026

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Join us for special live school assembly to mark World Refugee Day

# data[].attributes.body
Newcastle ESOL Service are happy to be able to offer our Communicating with Speakers of Other Languages training session to external participants.

The session is designed for those who regularly need to interact with those who have a low level of English. It will be of particular use to frontline staff/volunteers and new starters.

Tickets can be reserved via Eventbrite here:

13th of July at 10:30

# data[].attributes.body
Too often, conversations about asylum seekers and refugees are conducted without their voices being heard. Instead of speaking about them, we believe it is far more powerful to speak with them—to listen to the personal experiences of new arrivals to the UK.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
In their own words - Sanctuary Foundation

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Too often, conversations about asylum seekers and refugees are conducted without their voices being heard. Instead of speaking about them, we believe it is far more powerful to speak with them—to listen to the personal experiences of new arrivals to the UK. In light of the unprecedented surge of violence this summer, targeting asylum seekers, immigrants, and people of […]

# data[].attributes.headline
Info sessions on Erasmus+ in June for schools - sign up now!

# data[].attributes.subject
Info sessions on Erasmus+ in June for schools - sign up now!

# data[].attributes.body
The UK has rejoined the Erasmus+ programme and funding will be available for international placements and partnerships for organisations working in education, training, youth and sport. Find out about UK-wide online information sessions in June to support schools’ involvement and our in-person Erasmus+ session on 11 June at 4-5.30pm for Newcastle schools – registration links all included in the article.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Erasmus+ international opportunities in education, training, youth and sport - sign up for information sessions in June! - International Newcastle

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The UK has rejoined the Erasmus+ programme – which is great news for Newcastle and the UK, as it opens new opportunities for children and…

# data[].attributes.headline
Day of Welcome 12 June and Refugee Week (15-21 June) resources

# data[].attributes.subject
Day of Welcome 12 June and Refugee Week (15-21 June) resources

# data[].attributes.body
Join in and celebrate A Day of Welcome in schools (12th June) and Refugee Week 2026 (15-21 June). Find out more about events, activities and resources available to support your participation.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Celebrating ‘A Day of Welcome’ for schools (12 June) and Refugee Week 2026 (15-21 June) - International Newcastle

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
International Newcastle supports A Day of Welcome and encourages schools to get involved. This is an annual day of solidarity and learning in schools that…

# data[].attributes.headline
Sign up this week for Festival resources to use beyond March

# data[].attributes.subject
Sign up this week for Festival resources to use beyond March

# data[].attributes.body
Last chance this week to register for Express Yourself NE Festival of Languages live event recordings and a range of classroom activities with teaching resources https://expressyourselfne.com/2026/03/31/last-chance-to-register/

# data[].attributes.headline
A day of Welcome Tuesday, April 28, 2026 @ 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm for secondary school age pupils

# data[].attributes.subject
A day of Welcome Tuesday, April 28, 2026 @ 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm for secondary school age pupils

# data[].attributes.body
A Day of Welcome – Asylum Speakers: Giel

Tuesday, April 28, 2026 @ 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm

Free live event for secondary schools:

Meet Giel, a South Sudanese refugee who recently set out to walk the length of the UK to raise money for charity. As an inspirational speaker with a remarkable story, he will motivate and inform your pupils, offering practical ways to build a community of welcome and belonging in your school.

Find out more and register for free here:

A Day of Welcome – Asylum Speakers: Giel | VNET Education CIC

A Day of Welcome is an annual day of solidarity and learning in schools that aims to build a culture of welcome and understanding for people seeking sanctuary. Celebrated by over 820 schools and +220,000 young people in 2025, it's designed to support teachers in kickstarting Refugee Week by providing free live events, resources and activities for pupils of all ages.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
A Day of Welcome – Asylum Speakers: Giel

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Meet Giel, a South Sudanese refugee who recently set out to walk the length of the UK to raise money for charity. As an inspirational speaker with a remarkable story, he will motivate and inform your…

# data[].attributes.headline
Festival newsletter - with all remaining FREE activities, recordings and resources (Register before 31 March - for use beyond March)

# data[].attributes.subject
Festival newsletter - with all remaining FREE activities, recordings and resources (Register before 31 March - for use beyond March)

# data[].attributes.body
Festival newsletter - with all remaining FREE activities, recordings and resources (Register before 31 March - for use beyond March). Lots of activities around world languages and cultures.

# data[].attributes.headline
Register for FREE Festival resources, recordings and remaining live events by 31 March

# data[].attributes.subject
Register for FREE Festival resources, recordings and remaining live events by 31 March

# data[].attributes.body
Find out about live events, recorded events, classroom activities and creative projects – all with teaching resources -  available FREE as part of the Festival. Register before 31st March and many resources can be used beyond March.

Click here to download the 10th March Festival newsletter.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
10th March 2026 NE Festival of Languages Newsletter 

# data[].attributes.headline
Schools invited to respond to survey on multilingualism (13 Mar) and invited to symposium (18 Mar)

# data[].attributes.subject
Schools invited to respond to survey on multilingualism (13 Mar) and invited to symposium (18 Mar)

# data[].attributes.body
Newcastle University is asking schools and organisations to respond to their multilingualism survey by 13 March and invite them to a symposium on multilingualism, education and social justice on 18 March in Newcastle. Links to registration, the programme and the school survey are all in this article: https://internationalnewcastle.org.uk/multilingualism-symposium

# data[].attributes.headline
No place like home poetry competition Sanctuary Foundation

# data[].attributes.subject
No place like home poetry competition Sanctuary Foundation

# data[].attributes.body
No place like home poetry competition Sanctuary Foundation

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
No Place Like Home - Art and Poetry Competition for Schools - Sanctuary Foundation

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Let's Build Empathy Sanctuary Foundation is proud to present an exciting new art and poetry competition that invites students from years 3-13 to reflect on what life is like for the 43.3 million children around the world who are displaced. Schools should digitally submit their top 3 pieces in each category.

# data[].attributes.headline
Register for FREE Festival in person and online events (Feb-Mar)

# data[].attributes.subject
Register for FREE Festival in person and online events (Feb-Mar)

# data[].attributes.body
There are a wide range of in-person and online events available to attend for free during the Festival. https://expressyourselfne.com/live-events/

Online events have unlimited capacity.

In-person events on the calendar may have places available if they are not listed as FULLY BOOKED – click here https://expressyourselfne.com/2026/01/07/in-person-event-places/ for the latest updates on availability for remaining places for any in person events.

To register for events, click on the image on the calendar page to see the specific event you are interested in and follow the instructions to register in the ‘How do I get involved?’ section and follow the instructions.

# data[].attributes.headline
KS2 lesson and resources: Multilingual Me (Migration and multilingualism) 6 Jan-31 March

# data[].attributes.subject
KS2 lesson and resources: Multilingual Me (Migration and multilingualism) 6 Jan-31 March

# data[].attributes.body
For UK primary schools (KS2): UK primary schools can use this pre-prepared lesson to explore the languages in your school community. Children will learn about multilingualism and migration in the context of their classroom, community and country whilst celebrating the linguistic diversity all around them. They will hear stories from the voices of multilingual people who have moved to the UK and consider their own family stories of languages. Resources are available from January to the end of March for registered primary schools.

To register, email info@expressyourselfne.com with your school name and address, contact name and email and the number of young people participating. You will be sent the resources for use in your classrooms.

# data[].attributes.headline
#LetAfghanGirlsLearn! Webinar for 11-18 year olds: 12-12.45 10th March 

# data[].attributes.subject
#LetAfghanGirlsLearn! Webinar for 11-18 year olds: 12-12.45 10th March 

# data[].attributes.body
11-18 year olds in secondary schools, 6th forms, colleges youth and community groups are invited to join international speakers for this extraordinary opportunity to share the experiences of Afghan girls and their fight for education. Speakers from Afghanistan and the UK will give information on what life is like for girls who have been excluded from school and what pupils in the UK can do to support them, share their stories and take action. Registration is required to join online (or to access a recording of the session for use afterwards). An education pack is available to use before and after the session. Click here to find out more about the event.

To register, email info@expressyourselfne.com with your organisation name and address, contact name and email and the number of young people and their age range participating. Joining instructions and accompanying resources will be emailed in advance and the recording will shared after the event with all who register.

Hosted by Newcastle City Council on Teams as part of Express Yourself: North East Festival of Languages

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
To help us keep this website secure, please wait while we verify you’re not a robot! It will only take a few seconds…

# data[].attributes.headline
Turing webinar for Newcastle schools Thursday 5th 

# data[].attributes.subject
Turing webinar for Newcastle schools Thursday 5th 

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
To help us keep this website secure, please wait while we verify you’re not a robot! It will only take a few seconds…

# data[].attributes.headline
FREE Festival of Languages events and activities available to 31 March - register now to support Schools of Sanctuary work

# data[].attributes.subject
FREE Festival of Languages events and activities available to 31 March - register now to support Schools of Sanctuary work

# data[].attributes.body
Sign up for Festival creative multilingual projects and classroom activities with teaching resources (available now up to 31 March), as well as live events and activities around world languages and cultures in March to enrich your curriculum and support Schools of Sanctuary work in your school. Everything is free to schools in Newcastle and the North East. Registration required - follow the links to activities to register.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Great Big Live Nativity- 10th December 2025

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Watch back a wonderful nativity event live from Road Farm in Buckinghamshire complete with donkeys, goats and a beautiful retelling of the Christmas story.

# data[].attributes.body
brand new short “Best Christmas Ever."

Sanctuary Foundation film .This is a moving, true story of how an asylum seeker from Iran ended up celebrating Christmas with a stranger. At a time of increasing hostility toward refugees, this short film offers a simple, human reminder of empathy and welcome. Designed for church Christmas services and schools, the film uses images and music (no narration) to make the story accessible to all ages and languages. It has already been shown to over 48,000 children this week, and with your help we can ensure more people see it and are inspired by it.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Best Christmas Ever - a short festive film for our divided times

# data[].attributes.body
Videos and resources from SF

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Our charity work has been seen across the world through various media outlets Videos 70TH ANNIVERSARY OF ROSA PARKS FLAGS https://youtu.be/87oePq_IC70https://youtu.be/mAMOP4-dES4 THird anniversary of ukraine war National Holocaust Memorial Day Highlights No Place Like Home Lent 2023 Advent Sudan far from home Publications Wave of Compassion This report was presented on the anniversary of the [...]

# data[].attributes.headline
RECORDING: International School Award and Festival 2026

# data[].attributes.subject
RECORDING: International School Award and Festival 2026

# data[].attributes.body
RECORDING of WEBINAR: PASSCODE ISA2025 LINK: https://vimeo.com/expressyourselfne/isafestival?share=copy&fl=sv&fe=ci

This webinar recorded in November 2025, provides information for schools from British Council's International School Award Team, shares the experience of a Newcastle school that has achieved Accreditation and hears from the Express Yourself North East Festival of Languages Co-ordinator about how Festival 2026 activities can support and inspire schools to progress through the ISA levels from Foundation Certificate, to Intermediate and Accreditation levels.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Join the web’s most supportive community of creators and get high-quality tools for hosting, sharing, and streaming videos in gorgeous HD with no ads.

# data[].attributes.headline
An Introduction to schools of sanctuary short films 

# data[].attributes.subject
An Introduction to schools of sanctuary short films 

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
You can download the latest version of the pack or order a printed copy using the buttons below. Download the pack Order a printed copy OUT NOW! Download the Welsh language Schools of Sanctuary Resource Pack below. Download the pack Please note that due to funding limitations we are unable to send printed copies of [...]

# data[].attributes.body
The IRC and the story project have lesson plans for schools- take a look

# data[].attributes.headline
Register now for Express Yourself: North East Festival of Languages activities

# data[].attributes.subject
Register now for Express Yourself: North East Festival of Languages activities

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Express Yourself – Festival of Languages North East

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Designed to spark curiosity and inspire young minds, our Festival offers FREE events, activities and resources for children and young people in schools, community schools and groups.

# data[].attributes.body
Moorside Primary School Schools of Sanctuary Powerpoint

# data[].attributes.headline
International Education Week 17-21 November

# data[].attributes.subject
International Education Week 17-21 November

# data[].attributes.body
International Education Week 2025 is organised by British Council and will take place from 17th to 21st November. The week is dedicated to celebrating international learning in schools and will feature a variety of online events and resources aimed at educators and pupils alike. Inspire and motivate students to discover other languages, countries and cultures.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
To help us keep this website secure, please wait while we verify you’re not a robot! It will only take a few seconds…

# data[].attributes.headline
Webinar 4-5pm 27th Nov: Progressing with International School Award using Festival activities

# data[].attributes.subject
Webinar 4-5pm 27th Nov: Progressing with International School Award using Festival activities

# data[].attributes.body
Join British Council’s International School Award Team and the Coordinator of the 2026 Express Yourself: North East Festival of Languages for this webinar on 27th November. North East schools are invited to attend and discover how your school can progress through the International School Award (ISA) levels using Festival activities.

Click on the link to register: https://forms.office.com/e/kfUiJTbJSW

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
To help us keep this website secure, please wait while we verify you’re not a robot! It will only take a few seconds…

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The IRC UK is helping children thrive in times of crisis

# data[].attributes.headline
Join Letitia Wright (Shuri from Black Panther) for a Special Online Film Premiere

# data[].attributes.subject
Join Letitia Wright (Shuri from Black Panther) for a Special Online Film Premiere

# data[].attributes.body
An inspiring secondary school event confronting knife crime and supporting Ofsted priorities in safeguarding, character education, and citizenship. This is an invitation to all secondary schools to join us on Thursday 4th of December at 2pm for a special national screening of a brand new short film called "Highway to the Moon" and hear live from Hollywood actress Letitia Wright the director. If you are a primary school and know of local secondary schools who would benefit from this event, please pass on the details of how to get tickets.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Secondary Schools: Free Premier of Inspiring Film

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This is an invitation to all secondary schools to join us on Thursday 4th of December at 2pm for a special national screening of a brand new short film called “Highway to the Moon” and hear live from Hollywood actress Letitia Wright the director. If you are a primary school and know of local secondary schools who would benefit from this event, please pass on the details of how to get tickets.

# data[].attributes.headline
Scotland's new anti racism resources 22nd Jan 2026

# data[].attributes.subject
Scotland's new anti racism resources 22nd Jan 2026

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Using Scotland’s Anti Racism Resource - A Workshop for Secondary Teachers

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Join us to build your professional confidence in exploring Anti-racist Education (ARE) in the secondary setting.

# data[].attributes.headline
How to Talk to Children About the St George’s Flag 

# data[].attributes.subject
How to Talk to Children About the St George’s Flag 

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
How to Talk to Children About the St George’s Flag | Free School Resource | Lindsey Cameron

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This. 100% this. If you are an educator or parent looking for a way to discuss the recent protests in England and the use of St George’s Cross flags - use this. Some great discussion prompts at the end, including how we can make everyone feel welcome. This is the best resource I have seen in a long time. Congratulations to @sanctuaryfoundation on being so responsive to schools and parents crying out for a way to discuss this, and thank you to The Linking Network for sharing https://lnkd.in/eJXawz9F

# data[].attributes.body
Free resources :Featuring stunning posters, over 30 illustrated portraits, lesson plans, assemblies, and digital tools, this pack is designed for schools, workplaces, and communities to honour Black British history with pride and purpose.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Celebrate Black History Month 2025 with a bold and meaningful resource pack designed to educate, inspire, and spark action. Whether you’re in a school,

# data[].attributes.headline
Religious Education links to calender and resources

# data[].attributes.subject
Religious Education links to calender and resources

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
SACRE - Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
What is SACRE?It is the Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education. SACRE’s main function is to advise Newcastle’s local authority on all matters related to collective worship and religious

# data[].attributes.headline
Religious videos from International Durham

# data[].attributes.subject
Religious videos from International Durham

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Share your videos with friends, family, and the world

# data[].attributes.headline
Information Now widget for school websites

# data[].attributes.subject
Information Now widget for school websites

# data[].attributes.body
very useful for schools to have this widget on your website for all parents to access support and information.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
InformationNOW provides trusted information for people living and working in Newcastle. We want to help you access what you need quickly

We work with partners in the community to help you access the most up to date and relevant information.

Give us your information

You can work with us and support InformationNOW by:

registering and updating your organisation's information. Log in at any time

using InformationNOW regularly

use the "comment on this page" button on any page to tell us if you find something that needs changing

email us your events and activities

add a link to InformationNOW on your organisation's website or use our free widget

subscribe to InfoNOW News and email us your news items

Allow your website visitors to search InformationNOW without leaving your site

InformationNOW widgets

Our free widgets are available to organisations to use on your websites. It's a bit of coding that sits behind the scenes in your website and allows your visitors, staff and volunteers to use InformationNOW without having to leave your website. This means they can find and share information, organisations and events all from your website. We have 3 widgets to choose from. See them in action below.

Sounds good? Drop us an email for a chat. We can send you the code to get the widget up and running on your website.

Home page widget

This is a smaller version of the InformationNOW home page so you can slot it into any page on your website. Letting your visitors find information, organisations, events and news without leaving your website.

Events & Activities widget

Our free Events & Activities widget gives you a live feed of the upcoming events in Newcastle. You can include this on your website to let your visitors see what's on this week.

Drop us an email for a chat. We can send you the code to get the widget up and running on your website.

Information widget

Adding our Information widget to your website means you can show your visitors a range of information pages on InformationNOW. Like our low income support information displayed below.

Drop us an email for a chat. We can send you the code to get the widget up and running on your website.

InfoNOW News

We reach over 1,700 people in Newcastle each week with our free InfoNOW News email. Each week we highlight the new and updated information on InformationNOW, upcoming events and activities and much more. You can subscribe to InfoNOW News and email us your news items

Free promotional resources available

Want to signpost people you work with to InformationNOW?

You can download our free resources below to use on your website, social media or to print and display in your venues.

Contact us if you need hard copies of these posters, bookmarks or postcards. We also have pop up banners available to loan for events.

Posters and postcards

Logos

Social media images

Themed social media images

Social Media Toolkit

Looking for helpful content to share on your social media channels? You can use our suggested text, hashtags and free images, to share information on the topics that your followers will find useful.
Visit our InformationNOW Social Media Kit for inspiration.
Videos

We have a series of videos to help explain How to get the most out of InformationNOW available on our YouTube channel.

Please watch and share them.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Working with and supporting InformationNOW - Information Now

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
InformationNOW provides trusted information for people living and working in Newcastle. We want to help you access what you need quickly We work with partners in the community to help you access the most up to date and relevant information. [...]

# data[].attributes.headline
Mother tongue other tongue anthology 2025

# data[].attributes.subject
Mother tongue other tongue anthology 2025

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We are very excited to publish this is collection of brilliant pieces submitted for the Mother Tongue Other Tongue celebration as part of the Express Yourself North East Festival of Languages 2025.

# data[].attributes.headline
Festival 2026 open for registrations in mid-November

# data[].attributes.subject
Festival 2026 open for registrations in mid-November

# data[].attributes.body
Get ready for Festival 2026! The programme will be open for advance registrations in mid-November. Free activities for schools and community schools from January to March, celebrating diverse languages and cultures and building skills and confidence.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Get ready for the 2026 Festival of Languages! – Express Yourself

# data[].attributes.headline
Hampshire Young Interpreter scheme webinar Tuesday 7 October 2025, from 3:30pm to 4:30pm (UK time

# data[].attributes.subject
Hampshire Young Interpreter scheme webinar Tuesday 7 October 2025, from 3:30pm to 4:30pm (UK time

# data[].attributes.body
The Healing Classrooms programme aims to support schools and educators to develop inclusive and nurturing learning spaces where refugee and asylum-seeking students can gain the necessary academic, social and emotional skills to develop their full potential.

We offer free training sessions and resources to educators and schools supporting refugee and asylum-seeking students in the UK.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The IRC UK is helping children thrive in times of crisis

# data[].attributes.body
The languages translated as of July 2025 are Arabic, Bengali, Gujarati, Punjabi and Urdu- hopefully more will be added soon,

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Starting Reception | Download confirmation

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Our ‘Starting Reception’ definition sets out the personal, social, emotional and physical skills that most children will develop by the time they start school.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Posters, Banners and Stickers - Schools of Sanctuary

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Being a School of Sanctuary is about saying loud and clear: we are proud to be a place of safety, belonging and kindness for all, especially people seeking sanctuary. Use the FREE downloads below to create banners and posters to display around school and share stickers with pupils. Do you find these resources helpful? Please […]

# data[].attributes.headline
Benfield school share thier work with Working with the Sanctuary Foundation: No Place Like Home, Refugee Week 2025

# data[].attributes.subject
Benfield school share thier work with Working with the Sanctuary Foundation: No Place Like Home, Refugee Week 2025

# data[].attributes.body
Benfield students joined an exciting art and poetry competition for young people aged 7 to 18. They were asked to think and share their thoughts about what life is like for the 43.3 million children around the world who have been forced to leave their homes.

The competition is run by the Sanctuary Foundation. A panel of celebrities, refugees and journalists will choose the best entries. The top 30 will be shown at The British Library during National Refugee Week (16–22 June 2025) and featured in a national online assembly, in the news and more. Winners will be celebrated at a prize ceremony on World Refugee Day (Friday 20 June 2025).

We are so pleased to share that Niayesh Kamali Y8 is a finalist in the No Place Like Home National Art and Poetry competition for her poetry entry ‘I miss you, Iran’. Congratulations! It’s a brilliant piece of work that will help to spread understanding and empathy for children who are displaced.

# data[].attributes.headline
Watch the Festival Song video with North East schools performing

# data[].attributes.subject
Watch the Festival Song video with North East schools performing

# data[].attributes.body
Be inspired by the children and young people of the North East singing, playing and signing the timeless classic, ‘What A Wonderful World’, as part of Express Yourself: North East Festival of Languages 2025. 7,465 children and young people from 61 schools took part in the project between January and March 2025.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Watch the inspiring video of children performing the 2025 Festival Song – Express Yourself

# data[].attributes.headline
Education toolkit for newly arrived children 

# data[].attributes.subject
Education toolkit for newly arrived children 

# data[].attributes.body
This helpful guide is made for educators who are welcoming Migrant children, specifically from Afghanistan, Ukraine and Hong Kong, but not excluding other countries. Chapters include planning and preparation for new arrivals, stress, trauma and adverse childhood experiences as well as case studies from newly arrived children. The Wales Strategic Migration Partnership have worked with schools to offer EAL strategies to improve language acquisition and offer tangible strategies for new EAL pupils to progress in their classrooms.

# data[].attributes.headline
Mother Tongue Other Tongue digital anthology published

# data[].attributes.subject
Mother Tongue Other Tongue digital anthology published

# data[].attributes.body
Discover North East children and young people's creativity, thoughts and feelings, which are showcased in this year's Mother Tongue Other Tongue digital anthology, with poems in 35 languages spoken or being learned in the North East. Thanks to all who took part and enjoy the ebook!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
2025 multilingual anthology showcases children’s writing, creativity and feelings – Express Yourself

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
This online training consists of three 1hr 15min sessions that provide school staff with the basics of the Healing Classrooms Approach. Sessions feature case studies, discussions and good practice-sharing activities on how to best support refugee students in schools across the UK.

In this training, you will:

Learn about the key psychological impacts of conflict, forced displacement and resettlement on children's brain development, behaviour and learning

Develop your understanding about trauma within the context of refugee communities

Explore psychosocial support strategies that schools can adopt to create healing spaces for students seeking sanctuary

Receive a printed copy of the Healing Classrooms Basics Training Handbook

Sessions start at 4 pm and run during term time. Please find below the next available training dates.

November 2023 (Full)

Sessions at 4 pm on Wednesday

8 November

15 November

22 November

January 2024

Sessions at 4 pm on Thursday

11 January

18 January

25 January

February 2024

Sessions at 4 pm on Wednesday

7 February

14 February

28 February

Sessions at 4 pm on Tuesday

6 February

13 February

27 February

More information

Who can join this training?

School staff who support refugee students, caregivers or families. Staff from all departments (e.g., teaching, administrative) can take part in the training.

What are Healing Classrooms?

The IRC's Healing Classrooms approach-built on 40 years of education in emergencies experience and a decade of research and field testing-offers children a safe and predictable place to learn and cope with the consequences of conflict and displacement.

All of our training series are based on the Healing Classrooms principles and provide practical guidance and resources on how to apply them to the everyday school context.

The Healing Classrooms programme was launched in the UK in May 2022.

"Thank you. We always question that we are doing enough, you have provided some great tools and ideas to support us."

"Thank you - hugely appreciate this course and these resources."

"Felt like we were all listened to - Thank you!"

"Training came at the right time for me. So educational and interesting. Thanks to the training team. You all are awesome!"

"A lovely presenter, so inclusive and encouraging."

"We have had some trauma training previously but this is much better geared towards refugee students."

"This was very good not only for working with refugees but also for young people who have experienced trauma."

"The handbook is of a very good quality and the instructors were very knowledgeable."

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This online training consists of three 1hr 15min sessions that provide school staff with the basics of the Healing Classrooms Approach. Sessions feature case studies, discussions and good practice-sharing activities on how to best support refugee students in schools across the UK. In this training, you will:

# data[].attributes.body
'The Holocaust, Their Family, Me and Us' educational project for schools in the UK is based upon the award-winning documentary series “My Family, the Holocaust and Me”, produced by Wall to Wall Media for the BBC and directed by David Vincent. In it Robert Rinder MBE helped his mother Angela Cohen MBE and fellow British Jewish families

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Schools invited to join FREE ‘The Holocaust, their Family, Me and Us’ programme - International Newcastle

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Schools are invited to join this immersive, inclusive, enrichment project for secondary schools, including SEND, Alternative Provision, specialist provisions and Sixth Form colleges. It is…

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
This online training consists of three 1hr 15min sessions that provide school staff with the basics of the Healing Classrooms Approach. Sessions feature case studies, discussions and good practice-sharing activities on how to best support refugee students in schools across the UK.

In this training, you will:

Learn about the key psychological impacts of conflict, forced displacement and resettlement on children's brain development, behaviour and learning

Develop your understanding about trauma within the context of refugee communities

Explore psychosocial support strategies that schools can adopt to create healing spaces for students seeking sanctuary

Receive a printed copy of the Healing Classrooms Basics Training Handbook

Sessions start at 4 pm and run during term time. Please find below the next available training dates.

November 2023 (Full)

Sessions at 4 pm on Wednesday

8 November

15 November

22 November

January 2024

Sessions at 4 pm on Thursday

11 January

18 January

25 January

February 2024

Sessions at 4 pm on Wednesday

7 February

14 February

28 February

Sessions at 4 pm on Tuesday

6 February

13 February

27 February

More information

Who can join this training?

School staff who support refugee students, caregivers or families. Staff from all departments (e.g., teaching, administrative) can take part in the training.

What are Healing Classrooms?

The IRC's Healing Classrooms approach-built on 40 years of education in emergencies experience and a decade of research and field testing-offers children a safe and predictable place to learn and cope with the consequences of conflict and displacement.

All of our training series are based on the Healing Classrooms principles and provide practical guidance and resources on how to apply them to the everyday school context.

The Healing Classrooms programme was launched in the UK in May 2022.

"Thank you. We always question that we are doing enough, you have provided some great tools and ideas to support us."

"Thank you - hugely appreciate this course and these resources."

"Felt like we were all listened to - Thank you!"

"Training came at the right time for me. So educational and interesting. Thanks to the training team. You all are awesome!"

"A lovely presenter, so inclusive and encouraging."

"We have had some trauma training previously but this is much better geared towards refugee students."

"This was very good not only for working with refugees but also for young people who have experienced trauma."

"The handbook is of a very good quality and the instructors were very knowledgeable."

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This online training consists of three 1hr 15min sessions that provide school staff with the basics of the Healing Classrooms Approach. Sessions feature case studies, discussions and good practice-sharing activities on how to best support refugee students in schools across the UK. In this training, you will:

# data[].attributes.headline
Aardman and Save the children lovely animation

# data[].attributes.subject
Aardman and Save the children lovely animation

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
A poignant tale of displacement, loss, friendship and tolerance, the film reflects the stories of many refugee children, such as Siraj*, 11, who left Syria for Italy and remarked, "When we arrived, I was sad, I was leaving all my friends, my family and my cousins. The language here is different."

Another Syrian refugee Noura*, 12, explained, "We are refugees, but we are proud. We haven't ended up here because we wanted to, but because we had to. If you have a refugee near you, I think you should try to welcome them."

Created by Director Peter Peake, 'Home' will be screened in primary schools across the UK alongside its general release. The short film follows a small orange circle as they arrive at a new school in an entirely purple world, inhabited solely by triangular purple characters. The orange circle immediately feels out of place, struggling with the language barrier and strange new food. But, through a blossoming friendship with a fellow pupil, they begin to feel welcome and accepted. As that happens, little bursts of orange start to appear in the purple surroundings, elevating the landscape to a richer, warmer, and more diverse environment. The film then shows different characters of all shapes and hues that bring their own unique colours to the previously monochrome surroundings, transforming it into a thriving and vibrant world full of energy and colour.
Peter Lord CBE, Co-founder and Creative Director at Aardman, said: "Animation is an amazing medium for expressing ideas that would otherwise be difficult to communicate. At Aardman we believed that we had the expertise to help tell these stories in a way that would be sensitive, accessible, and relatable for children all around the world. It was also vital that the film we created would share the right messages, address a genuine need, and help as many children as possible. We approached Save the Children to help us with these aspects, and to keep us on the right track and we were absolutely delighted with the collaboration."
As is the case in several of Aardman's most beloved productions - from Shaun the Sheep to Morph - the story is told without using dialogue, which means its message is accessible to children and adults of all ages, everywhere. It transcends language barriers to show how we can extend a hand of friendship to people who find themselves in a strange new place and how much richer our world becomes when everyone feels welcome.
The film's director Peter Peake, commented: "Our film was created as a specific response to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, but it aims to help all children displaced from their homes due to war, famine and persecution. Working with Save the Children, we learnt what difficulties children face when trying to settle in a new country. Ultimately, we hope the film encourages children everywhere to empathize with some of their peers who might be going through that experience and to know the impact they can have by making someone feel welcome" Alison Griffin, Head of Conflict & Humanitarian Campaigns from Save the Children, added: "We were absolutely thrilled to partner with Aardman in making this film. Many refugee children who've found a new, safer home, still carry the physical and emotional scars of war, or face daily setbacks simply because of who they are or where they've come from. That's why it's so important for refugee children to get the welcome - and the childhood - they deserve. We hope this beautiful short film will inspire people to reach out to child refugees, welcome them, and help them feel somewhere like 'home' again."
All over the world, children's lives are at risk as conflicts persist. For almost every single second of the war in Ukraine, a child has become a refugee. Save the Children's Emergency Fund allows them to respond to disasters around the world immediately. Donations to support this vital work can be made here.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Aardman and Save the Children launch short film | Aardman

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
A poignant tale of displacement, loss, friendship and tolerance, the film reflects the stories of many refugee children, such as Siraj*, 11, who left Syria for Italy and remarked, "When we arrived, I was sad, I was leaving all my friends, my family and my cousins. The language here is different."

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Young Interpreters: Report for Hampshire EMTAS on the Impact of the Young Interpreter Scheme (Page, 2024)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Understanding the Young Interpreter Scheme

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
“Like so many of the best ideas, the Young Interpreter Scheme® is so stunningly simple that you wonder why it has not been done before.” David Brindle, The Guardian

# data[].attributes.body
Education for late arrivals Examining education provision for displaced young people arriving in the UK late in the education system

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
We are a national network of over 400 primary and secondary schools, nurseries and sixth forms all committed to creating a culture of welcome and inclusion for refugees and people seeking asylum.

Driven by teachers, school staff, parents, governors and community groups, this network supports the thousands of young people seeking sanctuary in the UK, raises awareness of the issues facing people in the asylum system, challenges misconceptions and builds social cohesion.⁣

Schools are supported every step of the way either by an accredited Local Lead or by the Schools of Sanctuary Team at City of Sanctuary UK.

Interested in joining this movement of welcome?

This website, our Resource Pack and our half-termly newsletter are available to any school that wishes to learn more and get involved.

Ready to begin your journey to becoming an awarded School of Sanctuary?

Sign the pledge and see the next steps.

If based in the Republic of Ireland, please visit the Schools of Sanctuary Ireland website.

Latest Schools Posts from across the City of Sanctuary Network

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We all have a part to play in building a welcoming and inclusive society. We are a national network of over 400 primary and secondary schools, nurseries and sixth forms all committed to creating a culture of welcome and inclusion for refugees and people seeking asylum.

# data[].attributes.headline
Welcome to the UK”, a bilingual book to welcome primary school-age children from Hong Kong.

# data[].attributes.subject
Welcome to the UK”, a bilingual book to welcome primary school-age children from Hong Kong.

# data[].attributes.body
This is why UKHK has prepared “Welcome to the UK”, a bilingual book to welcome primary school-age children from Hong Kong. This book introduces facts and interesting information about life and culture in the UK, activities, and signposts services that children and parents can seek support from. It also includes space and questions for children to write down their first impressions on their new home. In years to come, this book will serve as a lovely memento.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Sometimes, few things beat a gift when it comes to telling people how much we appreciate them. This is why UKHK has prepared " Welcome to the UK", a bilingual book to welcome primary school-age children from Hong Kong. This book introduces facts and interesting information about life and culture in the UK, activities, and signposts services that children and parents can seek support from. It also includes space and questions for children to write down their first impressions on their new home. In years to come, this book will serve as a lovely memento.

Order the books today for free (including free UK delivery)!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Welcome to the UK, kids! "Welcome to the UK" is a bilingual book to welcome primary school-age children from Hong Kong. It introduces facts and interesting information about life and culture in the UK, activities, and signposts services that children and parents can use.

# data[].attributes.body
Healing classroom link to the parent’s guide of what to expect in the EYFS which was written for parents to help them gain an understanding of what happens in Early Years. Useful for you to have in case a setting needs to support parents understanding.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) - working together to improve the lives of people in Greater Manchester - Bolton, Bury, Manchester, Oldham, Rochdale, Salford, Stockport, Tameside, Trafford, Wigan

# data[].attributes.body
Westgate Hill's appendix Padlet

# data[].attributes.body
Teaching Resources

How to talk about Migration

Lesson Plans

Resources from our Partners

Contact Us

Our Migration Story was designed explicitly with teachers in mind. Recent changes to the National Curriculum in History, and the prioritisation of Spiritual, Moral, Social, and Cultural (SMSC) development across Key Stages, have widened the opportunities for teaching students to understand and appreciate the range of peoples, from all places, who have journeyed to and helped to shape the British Isles.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Our Migration Story was designed explicitly with teachers in mind. Recent changes to the National Curriculum in History, and the prioritisation of Spiritual, Moral, Social, and Cultural (SMSC) development across Key Stages, have widened the opportunities for teaching students to understand and appreciate the range of peoples, from all places, who have journeyed to and helped to shape the British Isles.

This site brings together a range of migration stories and supporting sources to make it as easy as possible for you to find material for the classroom and top up your own understanding.

This section, aimed solely at educators, offers advice on how to use this website in schools and provides teaching resources ready for immediate use in the classroom.

Site overview

The main information on this site falls under four period headings: AD43-1500; 1500-1750; 1750-1900; 1900-2000s. In each section you'll find a video by a leading historian offering a summary of the major movements of the period, a text summary of other significant events and migrations in the same era, and a range of 'migration stories' of individuals and groups who came to Britain within the given timespan. The videos and text summaries are presented for use as introductions with pupils and/or to provide you with a sense of the many potential avenues you can explore in the classroom. The migration stories move from the general overviews provided by the videos and introductory text into the specifics of individuals' and communities' lived experiences.

The value of scaffolding

Migration stories take up most of the website. They have been written by our academic contributors and, while each one offers definitions of difficult vocabulary and generally accessible historical source material, they all use historians' own words and may require some scaffolding in the classroom. Although certain pupils may benefit from exploring the site alone in a computer room or at home, others might be best served by more guided activities, such as those in the Teaching Resources section, that are structured around the stories on the pages rather than focused solely on the page contents themselves.

Extending learning

The migration stories give comprehensive overviews of historical events and contexts and offer different avenues for further exploration. Most stories end with a section of 'Questions and Student Activities'. These sections invite pupils to think about similarities and differences between migrant groups, time periods, and, where appropriate, between the time period discussed and our own. In addition, all articles are organised by searchable and clickable topic and continent-of-origin tags. These navigation options provide alternative ways, besides chronology, to sort and move through the site, and sit alongside a more traditional search field.

What really matters is that everything on this site exists for your use - it functions as raw material to be adapted, reframed, expanded and remixed in order to best engage the young people in your classroom.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Our Migration Story: The Making of Britain presents the often untold stories of the generations of migrants who came to and shaped the UK.

# data[].attributes.headline
Activities for ages 7-16 use true stories from young Syrian refugees

# data[].attributes.subject
Activities for ages 7-16 use true stories from young Syrian refugees

# data[].attributes.body
activities for ages 7-16 use true stories from young Syrian refugees to help young people develop empathy and understanding.

Learn why people might move between or within countries.

Use stories and films to build empathy for people who have been forced to leave home.

Explore the potential impacts of being forced to flee home on your life and education.

Consider the importance of education and schools in helping young refugees to rebuild their lives.

Take action to make your school or classroom more welcoming for someone new.Crisis and conflict disrupt education. Refugee children are five times more likely to be missing out on an education. Almost half of all school-age refugee children are out of school and girls are less likely to be enrolled than boys.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Crisis and conflict disrupt education. Refugee children are five times more likely to be missing out on an education. Almost half of all school-age refugee children are out of school and girls are less likely to be enrolled than boys.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Stand with Refugees: Think critically about why some people are forced to flee home

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We all want to live in a place of safety with our loved ones. A place we can call home. But conflict, disaster and poverty has made home a distant memory for millions of people. Use these cross-curricular teaching ideas to support learners to strengthen their enquiry skills, think critically about why some people are forced to flee, and develop empathy for others.

# data[].attributes.body
Please write and ask Amal to visit our city!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The pack is created for all young people with learning material and challenge activities to suit different ages. Each challenge is marked with the recommended age group and any material that contains mature themes is flagged at the start of the section. You can also explore our Make With Amal postcards.

"This is one of the best education packs I have come across. It was fantastic to see how engaged the children were." - Teacher, The Beacon School, UK

Coming soon: Spanish translation

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The pack is created for all young people with learning material and challenge activities to suit different ages. Each challenge is marked with the recommended age group and any material that contains mature themes is flagged at the start of the section. You can also explore our Make With Amal postcards .

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Free youth workshops and training | British Red Cross

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Explore our free educational workshops for primary and secondary schools and young people ages 10 to 19.

# data[].attributes.body
This free teaching resource allows you to explore the refugee and migrant crisis with children and young people at school.

The comprehensive pack

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
This free teaching resource allows you to explore the refugee and migrant crisis with children and young people at school.

The comprehensive pack can be particularly helpful if you are planning something in your school to mark #WorldRefugeeDay on or around the 20th June.

Who is the pack for?

The education pack is aimed at teachers and contains learning activities that can help children in primary and secondary schools (from 7 years old upwards) make sense of the refugee crisis, with a focus on children and their rights.

What does the teaching pack contain?

More than 20 activities to help children explore and understand the crisis. Tailored for primary and secondary classes (ages 7 to 18), they range from short one-off lessons to longer projects and whole-school ideas.

Children's stories, infographics and videos bring the issues to life.

Historical context and background information on the crisis to give teachers a good knowledge of the subject, including the reasons why so many people Syrian refugees are fleeing their country and coming to Europe. A glossary with a range of definitions including what is a refugee, asylum seeker and migrant.

Guidance to help teachers prepare for potential discussions on complex and sensitive issues.

In Search of Safety: Children and the Refugee Crisis in Europe

Additional materials

In addition to the full education pack, we have also created a number of accompanying resources.

PowerPoint presentation to accompany the 'Where in the World' activity for primary schools

PowerPoint presentation to accompany the 'Where in the World' activity for secondary schools

PowerPoint presentation to accompany the 'Word Power' activity (.pptx format)

PowerPoint presentation to accompany the 'Word Power' activity (.ppt format)

Learning about the refugee crises' impact on children and their rights

We are in the midst of a refugee and migrant crisis in Europe. Children are affected directly and indirectly. This resource seeks to help you explore this important and complex subject with children and young people within a children's rights framework.

If you school is involved in the Rights Respecting Schools Award you will find this resource particularly useful. With a focus on children and their rights, using this resource can help you in your efforts to meet the three RRSA Strands.

Mark World Refugee Day at your school

World Refugee Day is observed each year on 20 June. You can raise awareness of the situation of refugees throughout the world and show solidarity with those fleeing persecution by marking the day in your school. Our teaching pack can help to plan a special moment for this important day.

Your feedback on the resource

This pack was developed with the help of a number of Rights Respecting Schools (thank you!) but we'd love to know what you think of it. Please complete our short evaluation form to help us improve other resources we develop in the future.

Campaign with us

Add your voice to Unicef UK's campaign to help reunite families, calling on the UK Government to speed up the process for reuniting unaccompanied children in Europe with their families in the UK, and widen immigration laws to allow children to be with extended family members who can care for them.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Refugee crisis school resource - UNICEF UK

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The comprehensive pack can be particularly helpful if you are planning something in your school to mark #WorldRefugeeDay on or around the 20th June. The education pack is aimed at teachers and contains learning activities that can help children in primary and secondary schools (from 7 years old upwards) make sense of the refugee crisis, with a focus on children and their rights.

# data[].attributes.body
This link is to an American site comprising a selection of books suitable for children in Primary phase, all for free.  Each book can be read on screen and there's an audio narration too.  You can choose in which language to have the audio narration - the list includes Arabic and Farsi.  Note that not all books are available with audio narration in all languages.  Note also that some titles may be more accessible by an American audience eg there's a book called "It's Fall" about autumn and another about "ladybugs" where in the UK we'd call them 'ladybirds'.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Unite for Literacy provides free digital access to picture books, narrated in many languages. Literacy is at the core of a healthy community, so we unite with partners to enable all families to read with their young children.

# data[].attributes.headline
Welcoming Refuge children in your school

# data[].attributes.subject
Welcoming Refuge children in your school

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Welcoming refugee children to your school

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This guide provides information about ways in which you can create a refugee-friendly school, make an accessible curriculum and think about some principles of effective practice.

# data[].attributes.headline
School of Sanctuary padlet appendix example

# data[].attributes.subject
School of Sanctuary padlet appendix example

# data[].attributes.headline
Resources from the UN, UNICEF, Oxfam etc

# data[].attributes.subject
Resources from the UN, UNICEF, Oxfam etc

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Also see:

Teaching packs and associated resources suitable for older primary-age and secondary students. In Search of Safety looks at the impact of growing levels of displacement in the European context whilst Forced to Flee has a more global outlook.

Resources to accompany the graphic novel Alpha, helping students aged 14+ to explore the characters, storyline and issues around the refugee crisis.

An activity pack from Amnesty International to support students aged 12+ to explore the characters, storyline and issues in this book, including refugees, human rights abuses, courage, freedom and protest.

Teaching notes from Amnesty International to help lower secondary students explore the themes of rights of freedom, equality, asylum, protection by law, and the right to food, clothing, housing and health care.

Teacher's Guide from the publisher, Lee & Low Books to explore the themes addressed in the novel, suitable for students aged 11-14.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Learning about People Seeking Sanctuary* - Schools of Sanctuary

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
City of Sanctuary UK prefers to use the term people seeking sanctuary in most contexts as this focusses on people first and foremost, as opposed to their immigration status. For further explanation and other examples of preferred terms, see our Guide to Use of Language and our Definitions page.

# data[].attributes.body
Refugee Stories

Hearing the voices and learning about the lived experiences of people seeking sanctuary is an important part of being a School of Sanctuary. We encourage schools, however, to not focus on people’s difficult experiences abroad, but also learn about their lives now in the UK and hear the positive aspects of finding sanctuary in the UK. By adopting this approach, students can get a better understanding of the things they have in common with people seeking sanctuary rather than what solely focusing on what is different.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Hearing the voices and learning about the lived experiences of people seeking sanctuary is an important part of being a School of Sanctuary. We encourage schools, however, to not focus on people’s difficult experiences abroad, but also learn about their lives now in the UK and hear the positive aspe…

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
One of the ways to support refugee students to feel a sense of belonging is to buddy them up with other students.
This slideshow is a resource for teachers to use when training students to become 'buddies' to welcome refugee/asylum-seeking students to your school. These 3 x 15-minute interactive sessions will enable students to understand the importance of their role. The sessions can take place over lunch times or after school.

The resource includes presentation notes for teachers for guidance and clarification. This slideshow is to be used alongside the Being a Buddy Student Booklet.
This resource is part of the 'Being a Buddy Resource Pack'. Find below related resources.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
A resource for teachers to use when training Buddies to welcome refugee/asylum-seeking students to your school.