Sanctuary week:
Refugee Week: Walking Together in Solidarity
Community is a superpower!
This week, our school community came together to mark Refugee Week – a time to reflect on the journeys of millions of people who are forced to flee their homes due to conflict, persecution, and danger. Through learning, empathy, and action, our children engaged in meaningful activities to better understand what “refuge” truly means – safety, support, and the kindness of others. The Sanctuary Ambassadors gave an assembly on Tuesday to inform everyone about the events of the week.
To support this important cause, we organised a non-uniform day and fun runs, encouraging pupils to raise money for Women’s Aid, a charity that provides vital refuge and support to women and children escaping domestic abuse. Thank you to all families who donated – every contribution helps offer someone a fresh start and a safe place to rebuild.
You can still support the cause here: justgiving.com/page/holyfamilyrefugeeweek and check out community events happening on Saturday here: swvg-refugees.org.uk/refugee-week-southampton-2025
A Journey of Understanding
Despite the hot weather, our pupils took part in a sponsored fun run – with most children choosing to walk, rest, and take their time to complete the course. Staff encouraged children to take it easy in the heat, and ensured children had access to water, shade, and regular breaks. We are proud of how sensibly and thoughtfully everyone participated. The aim wasn’t speed – it was solidarity. Each child who participated was given an orange heart sticker, to spread our message of showing love to those who need a safe place of refuge.
This gentle challenge helped pupils connect to the experiences of refugees, many of whom must walk for days in difficult conditions to reach safety. Our children reflected on this with maturity and empathy, showing how even a short walk can deepen understanding of others' struggles.
Creativity with Heart
As part of our celebrations, each child also decorated a small wooden heart with words and images or words of welcome, kindness, and hope. These beautiful symbols of compassion will be strung together as a garland in school as a visual reminder of the importance of refuge and community.
Our Sanctuary Ambassadors also took part in a special art project, decorating tote bags with messages of welcome for refugees. These bags will be proudly displayed in Southampton city centre on Saturday 21st June as part of the Refugee Week celebrations – a public sign of our school’s commitment to standing in solidarity with those seeking safety.
More Than a Fundraiser
Refugee Week is not only about raising money – it’s about raising awareness and understanding. Through stories, class discussions, artwork, and shared activities, our children explored what it means to seek refuge and what we can do to offer welcome.
Thank you to our wonderful school community for making this such a meaningful and inspiring week. Your support – whether through donations, participation, or conversation – is helping build a world where everyone is treated with dignity and care.
Let’s continue to walk together, in kindness and in action.
