In June 2024, Education Partnership North East (EPNE) became the first college group in the region to become a College of Sanctuary (CoS) in recognition of its work to welcome refugees and help them settle and thrive within local communities.
As a college, we are committed to supporting the College of Sanctuary's charter and organisational values, including inclusivity, openness, participation, inspiration, and integrity, so that we too can play a significant role in our region, to support building a more welcoming environment for people seeking sancturary and migrants to the UK.
A College of Sanctuary is committed to providing support and education to people seeking sanctuary and contributing to a culture of welcome within the community.
As a learning institution, colleges have an important role in fostering a culture of safety, respect and understanding for new students who are seeking sanctuary and can lead by example locally.
Being a College of Sanctuary means recognising and celebrating the achievements of students seeking sanctuary, as well as raising awareness across the college community.
To become a College of Sanctuary, we pledge to:
"Every lesson we learn new words and grammar rules in English."
"In college I met good people from different countries."
"I’d like to express my gratitude for your teaching, mentorship, and for bringing out the best in me."
"Every lesson we learn new words and grammar rules in English."
"In college I met good people from different countries."
"I’d like to express my gratitude for your teaching, mentorship, and for bringing out the best in me."
"Every lesson we learn new words and grammar rules in English."