Shimna teacher inspired by Ukrainian educators through new school partnership

THE unwavering commitment of Ukrainian teachers to their students has left a lasting impression on a Shimna Integrated College teacher following a recent international education programme supported by the British Council. Kirstie Curran, Head of Literacy at Shimna Integrated College, has returned from a partnership workshop in Poland, where teachers from across the UK and Ukraine met to establish new school partnerships centred on reading, literacy and cultural exchange.

For Mrs Curran, however, the most memorable aspect of the experience was meeting Ukrainian educators whose focus remains firmly on supporting and inspiring young people despite the significant challenges facing their communities.

“What struck me most was that, despite the very different circumstances our schools face, the teachers I met were focused on exactly the same things we are focused on at Shimna every day: helping young people succeed, supporting their wellbeing and creating opportunities for them to thrive.

Their commitment to their students was extraordinary. It was a powerful reminder that education is about so much more than examinations and qualifications. Education provides hope, stability, opportunity and connection. I came away inspired by their resilience and determination.”

As a result of the programme, Shimna students will now begin working with students in a partner school in Ukraine. This project is designed to forge friendship between young people from different backgrounds and experiences.

A symbol of that friendship has already arrived in Newcastle. Shimna students have received handmade friendship bracelets created by their Ukrainian peers, marking the beginning of what both schools hope will become a lasting relationship. Steve Pagan, Principal of Shimna Integrated College, said:

“At Shimna, our motto is Learning From Each Other; and this partnership brings that principle to life in a very real way. Integrated education is founded on the belief that understanding grows when people have the opportunity to listen, learn and build relationships with one another.

“Our students will have the chance to connect with young people whose lives have been shaped by different experiences, while discovering the values, interests and aspirations they

share. The friendship bracelets exchanged between the two schools are a simple gesture, but they represent something much bigger: young people reaching across borders to build understanding, friendship and hope.”

Over the coming year, students at Shimna and their Ukrainian partners will collaborate on a range of literacy and cultural activities, developing international friendships while bringing a global perspective to classroom learning.