Families, volunteers and supporters came together to celebrate the successful completion of the first academic year of the Ukrainian School in Carlisle, writes Chris Jones.
The school opened in March this year and was seet up to give Ukrainian children living across Cumbria the opportunity to learn their native language, explore their culture and traditions, and build lasting friendships in a welcoming and supportive environment.
Speaking at the end-of-year celebration, Helen Plotnikova, of the Carlisle Cumbria Ukrainian Hub, said: “Education is about so much more than learning. It is about identity, belonging, hope and the future of our children.”
Helen also paid tribute to the dedicated team whose commitment has helped make the school such a success.
Special thanks were given to Ukrainian language teacher Oksana Danyliak, psychologist Olena Stavniuk and art teacher Dasha.
She also thanked the parents, volunteers and supporters whose enthusiasm and hard work have helped create a welcoming environment where children can remain connected to their Ukrainian heritage while living in the UK.
Over the past year, the school has become much more than a place of education.
It has provided a safe and supportive space where families can come together, children can celebrate their culture and language, and the Ukrainian community in Cumbria can continue to grow despite being far from home.
The celebration also served as a charity fundraising event, with donations supporting the ongoing work of the Carlisle Cumbria Ukrainian Hub and the future development of the school.
Organisers said every donation would help strengthen community projects and ensure the school’s continued success.
The hub hopes to welcome even more families in the coming academic year and continue expanding opportunities for Ukrainian children across Cumbria.
The event concluded with performances by the children, presentations celebrating their achievements, and warm wishes for a happy summer holiday before ending with the traditional salute of Slava Ukraini – which means Glory to Ukraine – a fitting tribute to a successful first year and an optimistic future for the Ukrainian School in Carlisle.
