During the pandemic our community made huge sacrifices to support each other. The news from Ukraine has put all of that into perspective. We didn’t think that our community had any more to give, but you can see below the strength of support for the people of Ukraine. To give you hope, those of us who are lucky enough to work with teenagers know that the future is brighter, because these experiences have created a generation who value peace and democracy and know what communities can achieve when they come together.
Austen Hindman, Head Teacher
Let’s Cycle to Support Ukrainian children and families
I am Lithuanian. I grew up and was educated in occupied Lithuania, under the regime of the Soviet Union. As there were 15 countries in the Soviet Union, people of different nations inevitably mixed up over the years of occupation. As a result, I have an extended family and friends in Ukraine right now, and I have an extended family and friends in Russia right now. Lithuania and Ukraine declared their independence more than 30 years ago. Both nations had different paths, but we share the same patriotic hearts. At this moment my heart does not sit right, and I believe yours as well no matter what nationality you are.
The war in Ukraine is a tragedy for all. Ukrainian Children had their normal lives taken away from them, which may shatter their dreams and future lives. No child should face the tragedy of war. The students and staff in our school are aiming to undertake the challenge to collectively cycle the distance of about 1700 miles from Chichester to Ukraine. We will do this throughout March 2022 in order to raise the funds for Children and families in Ukraine at this difficult moment.
Donations can be made to https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/rasa-bagdoniene-bishop-luffa-school
Mrs Rasa Bagdoniene, Head of Burrows House
An Emblem of Support
Students and staff have been making blue and yellow ribbon badges to wear as an emblem and a prayer reminder, as we seek to maintain our prayer support for the current situation.
Mrs A Smith, Assistant Headteacher, Christian Ethos & Distinctiveness
School Community Comes Together
At the beginning of March we put out an appeal for a range of donations that could be sent to the Ukrainian/Polish border to support Ukrainian refugees. Having experienced life within a refugee camp whilst serving within the military, I personally know the conditions refugees are living in, and know that basic everyday essentials can help to raise a smile.
Our community really pulled together, with the donations filling a classroom! These included nappies, sanitary products, thermal clothes and gloves, batteries, torches and candles, dry food, warm blankets and sleeping bags, dog and cat food, together with painkillers, first aid kits, and face masks. We hope that these will bring comfort to those who need it.
Two minibuses left the school on Friday afternoon and with the help of one of our parents the boxes are on their way to Heathrow to be transported out to Poland.
Mr James Bonney, Head of Design & Technology
