Following a visit from our School Council, we received this message of thanks:

"St Mary's Primary were one of the first beneficiaries of this project...before we even had a name. They along with a dozen other schools and 40+ other care homes/community groups/homeless projects and others besides shared in the 115,000+ innocent drinks, 30,000+ Ivy restaurant meals and many tonnes of fresh fruit and veg that were channelled via this project the first months of the pandemic.

They were an absolute joy to work with. More importantly, seeing the teaching team fight so hard to put meal packs together for their kids was a great source of energy and inspiration for this project...and a good part of the reason why we are here today.

With all that in mind, it was a real joy (after 3 long days of being open) to have the lovely children from St Mary's school council come up to the hub with a big thank you note (and some treats for the volunteers). We couldn't wish for better neighbours!"

The children have been learning about refugees in assembly by looking at Amal and her journey from the Turkish/Syrian border. When asked how best we could welcome Amal if she were to come to our school we had various responses including "throw a party" and "make some bunting".
So we decided to make some bunting for the hall and as you can see we had some beautiful designs! Shyla's message was particularly moving; Amal you are wonderful and beautiful and may you live in peace.

What better message could you give to a child seeking refuge? The bunting looks beautiful in the hall and reminds us all that we should be shining examples of welcome and love to anyone coming to our community of St. Mary's.

Amal the giant walking puppet walked all the way from the Syrian/Turkish border across 8000km and 8 countries and finally arrived in the UK. Year 5 were on Deptford High Street to give her a very warm and special welcome along with lots of other children from Lewisham schools! As Lewisham's first School of Sanctuary St. Mary's had a very special part to play and accompanied Amal with giant bunting down the high street to Giffin Square where a huge poster was hanging which had been created by Years 5 and 6.  Ayana then gave Amal a giant Paddington sticker. Remember Paddington Bear was also a refugee like Amal!

Year 5 also spoke with the Mayor of Lewisham Damian Egan and Councillor Kevin Bonavia who has visited our school before. We even featured on BBC news that night! Year 5 were a real credit to the school and lots of people complimented them on their brilliant behaviour and good manners during what was a very busy celebration.

It was an amazing day and we are grateful to our governors and parents who accompanied us on the trip!

​The School Council visited Lewisham Donation Hub with a card and chocolates to thank all the volunteers for their amazing work!

The Donation Hub provides clothing, food furniture, household goods and other essential items for people in need. They are always happy to accept donations of good quality items - check their Facebook page for items required - or if you need items yourself you can attend in person every Thursday, Friday and Saturday.