Back in 2006 I was involved in putting together a scheme of learning around refugee issues, and specifically how refugees were represented in the media. Myself and my colleagues in the English Department had identified a need in the pupils we taught for a better understanding of the facts behind the headlines: at that time they were very often inflammatory, fuelling racial tensions which simmered just below the surface at the school where I worked.
Over the years the scheme evolved, until at some point we deemed it was no longer necessary. Newspapers appeared less full of prejudice, seemed to be presenting a more balanced view – and that was reflected in the opinions of the young people we taught.
Fast forward again to what is arguably the biggest refugee crisis our world has ever seen and I feel it is time to revive this scheme. Whilst I am not currently teaching, I hope these resources might be useful to people who are.
Sophie is... 