CORE Hello is a 12-week programme for new arrivals to the UK, designed to boost English language acquisition, help students access the curriculum and thrive when they return to their ‘home’ schools from across the CORE Education Trust.

CORE Hello is so much more than a language provision for new arrivals – as well as receiving tailored and targeted English language support this term students have visited Birmingham’s Symphony Hall, a supermarket, socialised at Perry Beeches Baptist Church, and taken part in a backstage tour at The Birmingham Hippodrome. By visiting the supermarket, students learn how to support their parents and become independent; the library and museum visit expands their cultural horizons and for many, is the first time they have experienced such an institution; and supporting a community event at the local Baptist church has encouraged them to speak and socialise with other members of the local community.

This provision has been especially designed to help new arrivals get off to the best start: in their learning, friendships and wider everyday life in their new homes.

In January, the school was also pleased to welcome Perry Barr Independent MP Ayoub Khan to learn about the school and the work it does in supporting young asylum-seekers. Mr Khan was given a warm welcome and were shown round the school by the CORE Hello Ambassadors and the UNICEF ambassadors – many of whom know how important that first hello and welcome to school is for anyone who arrives at the gates.