Langtoft Primary School link with Kharkiv children in UK-Ukraine School Partnerships Programme

Primary school pupils are teaming up with children in Ukraine as part of an international bridge-building reading project.

Langtoft Primary School has partnered with Kharkiv Lyceum No.152, in Eastern Ukraine, to share the joy of reading stories in different cultures and create connections between communities.

The schools were matched through the British Council’s UK-Ukraine School Partnerships Programme, which is funded by the Department for Education.

It supports 50 UK schools to build lasting international partnerships with 50 schools in Ukraine, and explores reading as a tool to expand horizons, build confidence and boost mental wellbeing.

The school’s Reading Leader, Ms Bytheway, visited Poland at the end of September to meet her Ukrainian partner teacher, Yana and plan online sessions, which began this week.

Year 3 pupils wrote letters to the children in Kharkiv, while handmade gifts were sent in return.

The Lincolnshire primary school has also won an award for improving playtime for its pupils.

The Opal Platinum Award was earned for its play provision in school following an inspection and accreditation.

They joined the Opal (Outdoor Play and Learning) scheme in September 2023 and worked with local play expert and Opal mentor, Rob Francksen, to help expand choice at playtimes.

Working with play leaders, co-ordinator Mrs Murthwaite and headteacher Becky Wood, activities now include a mud kitchen, digging areas, giant sandpit, stage, tree climbing and den building.

“Before we started OPAL, our outside space was underused, undervalued, and dominated by a small number of children playing football. It is now full of life!,” said Mrs Wood.

“Now there is something to interest every child. We see our children playing imaginatively and they come back to class more ready to learn.

“They are independent, confident, adaptable and able to assess risks. It really has been transformational.”