Secondary News

In Year 9 this term, our English students studied 'The Happiest Refugee' by Anh Do. When selecting texts for students to study, we hope our students broaden and challenge their worldviews, so they become more conscious of the complexities of the world around them, and the lenses through which others view the world. After analysing the text, students wrote reflections on their newfound understanding of Refugees. We found Sehun Park's response particularly encouraging.

"My understanding of the refugee experience has changed. I didn't know the amount of determination, persistence, and sacrifice that was required to escape. I originally thought that the only thing that refugees had to do was to get across the ocean safely, but in reality, they had to plan their escape and safely avoid all security that was stopping them. I didn't realize that the people that did manage to survive and safely escape their homes, were the lucky ones. I never had the thought that even after they safely refuged in their new country, they had the new language and culture difficulties they needed to adjust to in order to fit into their new home. I only now realize that few people that managed to escape their home to escape war or persecution, also had to leave their loved ones behind, hoping to reunite soon after, but some never having the reunion. After working on this unit of work, I have found a new love for refugees, and I have started to view them differently, understanding where they have come from and the difficulties they have had to face."

This was just one of many thoughtful and genuine responses that we received. People's worldviews and thought processes can only be broadened if they have the humility to carefully reflect on the experiences and ideas of others. We are proud of the Year 9s who have demonstrated such humility. "With humility comes wisdom" (Proverbs 11:2).

Aimee Sargent