Oasis Connaught awarded School of Sanctuary status

A Knowle West primary school has been recognised as a place of safety – after being given School of Sanctuary Status.

Oasis Academy Connaught – based on Melvin Square – will hold the title for the next four years.

Schools of Sanctuary is a growing network with more than 300 primary and secondary schools across the UK.

It is committed to supporting the thousands of young people seeking sanctuary in Britain – creating a culture of welcome and raising awareness of the issues faced by refugees and asylum seekers, who may have fled war, violence and persecution.

To achieve the status, the Academy had to demonstrate that it provided an inclusive space for children, while also creating an environment that celebrated cultural diversity.

Teacher and Deputy Designated Safeguarding at Oasis Academy Connaught, Zak Willis, said: “We are very pleased to have been presented with a place of safety award by the City of Sanctuary movement for our ongoing commitment for each and every child in our care, which is at the heart of the Oasis Academy Connaught ethos.”

The academy also supports its pupils, staff and the wider community “to understand what it means to be seeking sanctuary and to extend a welcome to everyone as equal, valued members of the school community.”

In a statement, Anna Wardell from the Bristol City of Sanctuary Recognition Team said: “We were so impressed with the dedication of staff at Oasis Connaught Primary School.

“Their efforts to achieve the School of Sanctuary status, especially during the pandemic, was an inspiration to us all.”