On October 14, St James’ VA Primary School celebrated the opening of a new Ukrainian school, marked by blue and yellow balloons. Rev. Eric Lomax and John Hulance from the Rotary Club officiated the ceremony.
The school, operating every Saturday from 10am to 3pm, welcomes Ukrainian children aged four to ten from Bedfordshire, with around 35 already registered. Six educators will lead three classes for different age groups.
Rev. Lomax highlighted that these children are refugees from the war in Ukraine and emphasized the school’s role in preserving their cultural identity. The curriculum will focus on arts, crafts, and sports, avoiding heavy topics.
Previously a side project of the Polish school, the new school now operates independently thanks to support from various organizations. After speeches, children sang the Ukrainian national anthem and participated in a handprint painting to symbolize their heritage. Rev. Lomax noted the school aims to provide a fun, informal environment for the children.