Students and staff at Jesmond Park Academy were delighted to learn that they have achieved the School of Sanctuary Award. Jesmond Park Academy is the first secondary school in Newcastle to achieve this prestigious award and demonstrates the significant work that the school has been involved in over numerous years around welcoming refugee and asylum seekers.
Schools of Sanctuary is a growing network with more than 1200 primary and secondary schools all committed to supporting the thousands of young people seeking sanctuary in the UK, creating a culture of welcome, and raising awareness of the issues faced by refugees and asylum seekers.
Steve Campbell, Principal, said “I just want to say how delighted and proud I am about receiving the school of sanctuary award. It reflects a lot of hard work from all the staff and students at the school and it reinforces the message that everyone is welcome here.”
In a ceremony held at the Great North Museum, the award was presented by Rosie Tapsfield, Director of Operations at City of Sanctuary UK, alongside colleagues from the Schools of Sanctuary team in Newcastle Tom Lynam and Sarah Edgar.
Chris Aitken, Deputy Principal for Inclusion, said “The knowledge and understanding gained throughout the application process were invaluable. We used this opportunity to enhance support for our most vulnerable students and feel encouraged by the programme."
