Widden Primary School becomes Gloucester’s First School of Sanctuary

A primary school in Gloucester has become the first in the city to receive a special status for developing a culture of welcome and safety for all. Widden Primary school with about 40 languages spoken by students, has been recognised as a School of Sanctuary. Staff, pupils and the wider community have embraced the school’s ethos of making it a safe and welcoming place for all, especially those seeking sanctuary – such as refugees and people having trouble at home. The hope is to work with the school to be a catalyst to develop Gloucester to become a city of sanctuary.

The school, received the accolade from the nationwide City of Sanctuary movement during a special community event. Adele Owen, Director of Gloucester Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers accompanied by Forward Maisokwadzo, Media Officer & SW Coordinator, presented the award to Tim Cooper, Headteacher, Widden Primary School. Adele said she was so pleased with the way the school welcomes diverse students and families.