Supporting Ukraine

Our fundraising efforts continue apace, as we welcome our first refugee pupils from Ukraine to the school community.

Following our non-uniform day and staff House netball fundraisers for the DEC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal earlier this term, a group of students were inspired to do more. Over the Easter break, Jemima, Noa, Riya and Sophie in Year 10 organised a collaborative sponsored 800km walk – the equivalent distance that many refugees have had to walk from Kyiv to safety in Poland. Pupils and staff were all encouraged to contribute by walking and logging a few kilometres – together, they succeeded in raising over £7,000. The pupils also spent lunchtimes making and selling blue and yellow badges, adding to the fundraising total.

Ms Aneja, our School Consultant Teacher for Social Action, commented: “I have been so impressed by the girls’ compassion, and their determination to make a positive difference.  It’s been wonderful to see everyone rally to provide support as our first pupils from Ukraine join our school community.”  

So far this term, we have welcomed five Ukrainian refugee children to South Hampstead; all places are fully funded, including extras such as uniform, iPads and trips. We are grateful to Friends of South Hampstead (FOSH) for helping to support pupils via last term’s fundraising quiz night, and to other members of the community who have donated to our bursaries and assistance fund. As part of our pastoral framework, all pupils have been assigned buddies, and full-time counselling provision is available; a number of teachers have volunteered to provide EAL (English as an Additional Language) support.

Online donations to our bursaries and assistance fund can be made online here or, for current parents, via ParentPay.