Teenagers in Shropshire have discussed what it is like to have school lessons in bunkers as they talk to their Ukrainian counterparts under a new partnership.
Ellesmere College students have become the first in England to take part in a scheme to partner Ukrainian schools in need with a British school that can help.
At the inaugural meeting an Ellesmere student asked what it was like to study in bunkers during the ongoing conflict – and a young girl from Prime Innovative Private Lviv (PIPL) Lyceum in Lviv said ‘it’s fine’.
She said: “We’ve got plenty of food supplies in the shelter, water and medical supplies just in case, and a psychologist from the school is there with us in case we come out from the shelter to some shocking news, or in case anyone has any panic attacks and is scared.”
The Ellesmere College students spoke to their Ukrainian counterparts as part of a school-to-school twinning project called TOGETHER which aimed to develop a connection and cultural exchange to enrich both groups of students.
Stephen Mullock, Deputy Head External Relations at Ellesmere College, said the meeting did just that.
He said: “It was great to see the students from PIPL Lyceum and Ellesmere College taking the first steps in this exciting programme. It was an emotive and interesting meeting, during which our students gained a lot of knowledge through their curious questioning and attention to the answers given.
“Everyone at Ellesmere is excited to be part of this relationship and many more events to come across the terms and years ahead.
“It is a fantastic initiative and the organisers have been passionate and committed in driving it forward, so a huge thank you to them.”
During the live online meeting the English students also shared their achievements in sports, including tennis, rugby, and cricket, while the Ukrainian students gave a presentation about their school life, including lessons in various subjects, sports, and leisure activities.
The presentations were followed by a lively Q&A session, with questions ranging from school routines and exam systems to favourite activities.
The TOGETHER scheme was organised by non-profit organisation British Homes and Schools for Ukrainians (BHSU), which was set up to build a sustainable network of services that will bridge the needs of Ukrainians arriving in the UK.
Valeria Samborska, Director of BHSU, said: “Exchanges like these demonstrate the value of sharing stories and fostering mutual understanding, respect and support.
“We can’t wait to see where these collaborations go from here, and we’re looking forward to more engaging activities and exchanges between our schools.
“I am so grateful to everyone in our team for working tirelessly to make it happen, and to Stephen Mullock at Ellesmere for steering this first partnership – the first for sure, of many!”
For more information about Ellesmere College visit www.ellesmere.com and for more information about BHSU visit www.bhsu.co.uk.
