Shimna teacher leads cultural partnership with Ukrainian educators
Kirstie Curran, Head of Literacy at Shimna, recently took part in a partnership workshop in Krakow in Poland, where teachers from across the UK and Ukraine met to establish new school partnerships centred on reading, literacy and cultural exchange. The programme, supported by the British Council, is designed to forge new friendships between young people from different countries and backgrounds.
For Mrs Curran, however, the most memorable aspect of the experience was meeting Ukrainian educators whose focus remains firmly on supporting and inspiring young people despite the significant challenges facing their communities.
"What struck me most was that, despite the very different circumstances our schools face, the teachers I met were focused on exactly the same things we are focused on at Shimna every day: helping young people succeed, supporting their wellbeing and creating opportunities for them to thrive. Their commitment to their students was extraordinary. It was a powerful reminder that education is about so much more than examinations and qualifications. Education provides hope, stability, opportunity and connection. I came away inspired by their resilience and determination."
Following Mrs Curran’s visit, Shimna students will now begin working with students in a partner school in Ukraine. Over the coming year, students at Shimna and their Ukrainian partners will collaborate on a range of literacy and cultural activities, developing international friendships while bringing a global perspective to classroom learning.
A symbol of that friendship has already arrived in Newcastle. Shimna students have received handmade friendship bracelets created by their Ukrainian peers, marking the beginning of what both schools hope will become a lasting relationship.
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