Feedback on the Sanctuary assembly

Great to see my former school awarded sanctuary status. So fitting for a school located in the heart of a very diverse neighbourhood. Very well done to all involved but a special thank you to the children and parents involved in the presentation on 14 February. An apt date to choose to celebrate love in all its forms. Angela Spence, Trustee of Wolverhampton’s Refugee and Migrant Centre (RMC); Magistrate; Director of Square Pegs Round Holes; Director of At Eve Management Consultancy; Governor at Wolverhampton University

I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to your special School of Sanctuary assembly. It filled me with optimism for the future that is in the hands of your students. They are very lucky indeed to have been exposed to such an enlightened education. They were obviously confident, self-assured and informed - very impressive indeed. Do pass on my thanks and appreciation to the students and my congratulations to you all.

Thank you so much for the invitation. Dr Heather Thomas, Fundraising and Development Consultant, RMC

I just wanted to thank you for inviting me to the Award ceremony yesterday and to say what an outstanding event it was - extremely moving, really inspiring and imaginative and a cause for such hope for the future that young people should be so immersed and supportive and at ease in the exciting multi-cultural world we live in. Wonderfully organised! Erik Pearse, Wolverhampton City of Sanctuary Group

It was a real joy to be at the school - I’ve raved about it to lots of people since and you even got a one-line mention on my “thought for the day” on BBC WM on Sunday morning! Rev'd Rachel Parkinson, Chair of the Wolverhampton and Shrewsbury District

Thanks again for inviting me to the school's special assembly, it was a real highlight of my week in Wolverhampton. Just shows how schools can bring children, parents and community together. Super-engaged kids too. Steve Ballinger, Director of Communications, British Future

It was an excellent performance. The combination of the words, music, movement and images was very powerful and kept me completely engaged. It was moving to hear Mohammad's story in his own voice and the Parent Ambassadors were brilliant. The children's observations about sanctuary and the human rights of asylum seekers, and their message of welcome were spot on. Thanks for inviting me - it was a privilege to be at the performance. Amanda Bevan, Women of Wolverhampton (WOW)

So glad to get an invite to the wonderful celebration. It was such a great example of the inclusiveness that West Park School embodies. The full participation of the young people, parents and community members, including those recently arrived in Wolverhampton, demonstrated how welcome new arrivals would feel coming into this school community. Staff facilitation was obviously key but in no way took a front seat allowing the whole school community to shine. I was genuinely moved by the stories told, the parent ambassadors were so welcoming and the children so confident in their message. I love the idea of "young interpreters" to make new children welcome. What a difference that must make when you're feeling alone and frightened.

The award is obviously very well deserved, and hopefully West Park will lead others to aspire to similar inclusiveness. You must be very proud!! Sue Traxson, Volunteer at RMC and member of Humans of Wolverhampton