Llangattock Church in Wales Primary School was granted the School of Sanctuary Award in March after Inspection by a team comprising Rowland, Michael, Ludmyla and Ailsa of Hay, Brecon and Talgarth Sanctuary for Refugees [HBTSR] . They were very impressed by everything that they saw and heard. It was no surprise therefore that the celebration of the award on May 15th was magnificently planned, participated in by all pupils and staff and involved many from the local community. As befits a Church in Wales school, the celebration took plan in St Catwg’s church with hymns, prayers composed by many of the children and presentations about the journey to becoming a School of Sanctuary. It was lovely to see the deputy Head and some pupils from St Mary’s school in Brynmawr come to share the celebrations.
The service started with addresses from the local vicar Reverend Bevan and Aled Edwards, Chair of Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority and Ex Chair of Displaced Persons in Action [DPIA] a refugee charity who started the move towards Wales becoming a Nation of Sanctuary.
These talks were followed by stirring presentations with slide shows by some of the pupils from each class outlining the work they had done towards being recognised as a school of Sanctuary. Years 3and 4 had a trip to visit an awarded school in Swansea to understand more about the process and to spend time with pupils there . A visit to the beach was also a highlight of the visit to Swansea but pupils are looking forward to a return visit when they can share their beautiful school and surroundings with the Swansea pupils.
The service continued with rousing renditions of ‘All things bright and beautiful,’ ‘Make me a channel of your peace ‘and ‘Mae ganddo’r byd cyfan yn ei law'[ the whole world in your hand] . The Key stage 2 song ‘when i needed a neighbour’ and key stage one song ‘Christian Aid -Speak up’ with its emphasis on ‘speak up, stand up and sing up for love, equality, dignity and justice’ had many in the congregation experiencing a lump in their throats.
Both songs were beautifully sung and expressed very positive thoughts about kindness to strangers. The music group performed ‘you shall go out with joy.’ The certificate of the School of Sanctuary award was presented by Rowland Jepson and Michael McBaye representing HBTSR, to Mrs Durbin, Head of Llangattock school. Her address is reproduced below with her kind permission.
Exodus 25:8: “Then have them make a sanctuary for me, and I will dwell among them.”
Becoming a School of Sanctuary is a profound commitment to fostering a culture of
welcome, inclusion and safety for all, especially refugees and asylum seekers. It aligns
beautifully with the values of compassion and community that we uphold. By becoming a
School of Sanctuary, we extend this tradition to our learners, ensuring that every child,
regardless of background, feels valued and supported.
For us, as a church school, this journey is deeply connected to faith. The teachings of love,
mercy, and hospitality call us to welcome the stranger and care for the vulnerable.
Becoming a School of Sanctuary is a way to live out these values in a tangible and impactful
way.
Education is a powerful tool for understanding and empathy. Schools of Sanctuary teaches
our learners about the experiences of refugees and migrants, helping them develop a sense
of justice and kindness. This encourages our young minds to embrace diversity and stand
against intolerance.
This initiative doesn’t just transform the school—it strengthens the entire community.
Families, school staff and learners come together to create an environment where everyone
belongs. It fosters a culture of active citizenship, where young people learn to advocate for
justice and inclusion.
Becoming a School of Sanctuary is not just a title—it is a commitment to continuous
learning and action. It challenges us to reflect on how we can do more to support those
seeking refuge. It is an invitation to open our hearts and doors, ensuring that our school is a
beacon of hope and kindness.
We are deeply grateful to our incredible community for their unwavering support in helping
us become a School of Sanctuary. Your kindness and commitment to inclusion reflect the
words of Hebrews 13:2— ‘Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing
some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.’ Thank you for making
our school a place of welcome and refuge for all.”
Diolch I chi gyd am bopeth.
