This year, Sidcot School has welcomed in members of the community affected by the conflict in Ukraine in our bi-weekly 'Ukrainian Hub'. This fortnightly event has provided an opportunity for those affected to get together, enjoy a swim in our pool, make new friends, and chat over tea and biscuits! We're so pleased to have been able to welcome in so many new friends, and provide some support in our community.
“I would like to say big thank you to the Sidcot School management and staff for creating a such a sweet atmosphere here at school, the feeling that we are at home with friends, these meetings on Sundays are sweet and heart-breaking at the same time.” Olena, Kyiv
“I would like to thank each and every one who managed to organise our Sunday meetings at Sidcot School. I came to the UK with two teenage kids who miss our homeland enormously. These Sunday meetings at Sidcot School is a real chance to get distracted from all horrific events that are happening at the moment.” Svitlana, Kharkiv
“I had a very long way to the UK. Due to the fact we lived close to the border we had to travel at night via country lanes. I was seven months pregnant and I also had two more kids with me. We travelled through Estonia, Poland and finally here we are in the UK. I want to say thank you to Sidcot School for the meetings on Sunday. I met new friends there and we all look forward to meeting up with British and Ukrainian people, have a swim and chat over tea or coffee. And every time we are here there are nice little presents for us from kind British people.” Karina, Kharkiv
“I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all people involved for letting my 15-year old son to become a part of Sidcot community, to enjoy school life and activities. Sadly, we are here due to horrific events happening right now in my home country. However, I met here wonderful people with big hearts who help us re-settle here. Also, meetings on Sundays, organised by Sidcot School is a real blessing for our little Ukrainian community.” Anna, Kyiv
“Hi everyone, I am here in the UK with two sons. I came last April because the area we lived in was under occupation. New life has been a challenge for us and the meeting at Sidcot School has kept us afloat. We can’t wait to meet with our new friends on Sundays, swim, chat, laugh, have tea and coffee. Big thank you for letting the meetings to happen.” Inna, Chernihiv
If you would like to participate in the next Ukraine Hub, or know families who would, you would be very welcome. The Hub takes place on alternate Sundays - find the next date on our calendar here.