Refugee Homework Club

Fifteen years of dedication to “transforming the lives of refugee families in Reading” has been recognised with a nomination for Community of the Year, sponsored by the Hilton Reading.

Every Tuesday, a group of Sixth Form students from The Abbey School volunteer after school to help refugee children complete their homework and support them as they develop their reading, writing, and maths skills.

“The one-to-one support boosts confidence, abilities, aspiration and helps the children to feel at ease in a school environment,” said the nominator.

While the children work with volunteers and share a snack, their parents meet next door where Reading Refugee Support Group volunteers help them develop their English skills. “Everyone benefits from this inspiring club that supports integration and education,” the nominator added.

There is also a strong social element, with families from South Sudan, Kosovo, Zimbabwe, Iran and other countries coming together to share experiences and build connections.

“This club makes such a positive, transformational, impact within the Reading community.

“It is so inspiring to see older teenagers giving up their time to support younger children who benefit from their help so much at such a testing time in their lives.”