A Milton Keynes primary school has become the first in the city to be recognised as a place of welcome and safety for refugees and people seeking asylum.
Portfields Primary School, in Newport Pagnell, has become the first school in Milton Keynes to be awarded ‘School of Sanctuary’ status.
The school now joins 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.
"At Portfields we celebrate every child, inclusion and welcome form the basis of our school values and we are proud of the empathy, kindness and compassion shown by all of our school community," said Head teacher Sarah Folkard.
A special assembly was held on Thursday 22nd June where guest speaker Cllr Naseem Khan shared her insights on compassion.
Other guests included Binta Bah-Pokawa, deputy mayor of Newport Pagnell, and Jo Dunk, from charity Welcome MK.
Sanctuary Lead Clare Dalton said: "The process has been such a rewarding one, it has enriched our school in so many areas, encouraging pupil voice and promoting active and engaged citizenship as well as helping to engage families and strengthening our role in the local community.
"We are committed to continue on our Sanctuary journey and would encourage other schools in Milton Keynes to consider gaining this accreditation."
