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We all have a part to play in building a welcoming and inclusive society.

We are a growing network of more than one thousand primary and secondary schools, nurseries and sixth forms all committed to creating a culture of welcome, understanding and belonging for those forced to flee.

Driven by teachers, school staff, parents, governors and community groups, this network supports the thousands of children and young people seeking sanctuary in the UK, raises awareness of the experiences of people seeking safety, and plays a key role in building a culture of kindness and compassion.⁣

Schools are the heart of our communities and are central to building a better, fairer and kinder society – for everyone.

The Schools of Sanctuary programme aims to advise, support and inspire schools in our network – this website, our half-termly newsletter, shared mailing list, regular events and the unique opportunities we develop are available to any school that wishes to learn more and get involved.

More than 600 schools across the UK have already earned the School of Sanctuary award in recognition of their efforts to go above and beyond to build safer, kinder schools and communities. The first step – join the City of Sanctuary movement for welcome.

Our network of trained and licensed local delivery partners, called Local Leads, oversee the award process for the schools in their area – making sure schools are supported every step of the way and are connected to local opportunities and networks, helping to strengthen the whole community response. On joining the movement for welcome, we will follow up to let you know if there is a Local Lead in your area and to put you in touch. If not, we will notify you if/when this changes.

See if there is a Local Lead in your area.

If based in the Republic of Ireland, please visit the Schools of Sanctuary Ireland website.

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