Principle 1. Learn
Schools start learning about refugees and hearing their stories, why people are forced to flee their countries, and the issues, and challenges people are facing in Ireland. Also, we learn about the cultures, traditions, food, and languages of people who have come to our community.
Here are some good examples of what Schools of Sanctuary do:
- Attend Webinars or workshops about the refugee journey to Ireland.
- Find out about all the languages spoken in the homes of students.
- Invite Sanctuary Ambassadors or a refugee to share their experience.
- Make connection with the local refugee support NGO.
Principle No 2 Take Action:
Now that Schools have developed an understanding of the refugees and asylum process in Ireland, we make an action plan of ways we can support refugees locally and nationally.
Here are some good examples of what Schools of Sanctuary do:
- Invite newcomers to share their culture & stories in diversity celebrations.
- Prioritize English Language and other supports for newcomer students.
- Invite Sanctuary Ambassadors to describe their experience of Direct Provision and arriving in Ireland.
- Create ‘Welcome Packs’ in different languages for parents
- Make sure the displays reflect the languages and cultures represented in the school.
Principle No 3 Share:
Here are some good examples of what Schools of Sanctuary do:
- Schools reach out to other schools in their areas to encourage them, and to share good practice, successes and stories.
- They share their SoS journey on their website and social media platforms.
- Some schools contact media outlets and produce video and audio campaigns around Schools of Sanctuary.