Unicef says it is important to make children’s right central to school life because they not only provide a frame of reference for interpreting the world we live in, but it also improves educational outcomes. Kentish Town Primary School is taking advantage of a free Unicef refugee teaching resource dubbed “In Search of Safety.” The resource was developed as part of World Refugee Day. Anna, a year six teacher says the resource is essential. Prior to the resource being made available, many people were nervous about beginning a discussion. Today, children now understand that refugee rights are being disrespected.
All children have the same rights
James, the school’s head teacher says the resource has helped build a more cohesive community. He adds that students were horrified that this was happening because migrant children have the same rights as they do. The children now have a deep understanding not only of their rights but the rights of others. When the school was being assessed a group of student ambassadors showcased in an assembly examples of where classes were able to use what they had learned to tackle issues in their communities.
Students helping out in the community
Students have engaged in a number of community outreach programmes. For example, Willow Class helped out at a local wildlife reservation where they helped conserve turtles. Sycamore Class decided to tackle air pollution because they were worried about rising levels of nitrogen hydroxide. Beech Class participated in a sponsored “sleep out” and were able to raise £2740 for a couple of charities that work with the homeless.
Making the world a better place
As the students of Kentish Town Primary School learn more about children’s right’s, that knowledge has spread and parents have also begun to lend their input by suggesting additional rights-based campaigning activity. James concludes that the exercise is all about outcomes and empowering children to make the world a better place by helping to change it.
