War and anniversaries are two concepts that ideally should never intersect. Yet, we are grappling with the harsh reality that the military conflict persists, claiming the lives of Ukraine’s valiant defenders on the frontline and innocent civilians alike. The notion of war as a “new normal” is one we reluctantly accept, as we continue with our daily routines.
The constant demands of navigating through adversity leave little time for self-congratulation. However, as the solemn milestone of the two-year war anniversary approaches in Ukraine, The British International School Ukraine looks back at the path we’ve travelled during this tumultuous period, since 24th February 2022…
British educational ethos
The British International School Ukraine, a trailblazer in bringing British education to the country, has never stopped operating since its establishment in 1997. We proudly stand as the sole international school in the country that has remained physically open, with the campuses in Kyiv and Dnipro, since September 1 2022, thanks to the consistent support from our global partners and the exceptional courage and dedication of our staff in Ukraine.
“The constant demands of navigating through adversity leave little time for self-congratulation.”
This underscores our steadfast commitment to delivering high-quality learning experiences to children, contributing to the nation’s recovery, and shaping its educational landscape.
Roadblocks as a driving force
Facing challenges opens doors for growth when met with flexibility, adaptability, and swift response. Sad but true, many of our families were forced to leave the country, however, we were glad to see others returning to Ukraine, and we welcomed new students to our BISU community.
“Three international teachers are currently staying with us on-site.”
Our global network empowered us to implement a unique hybrid education model. This involves Ukrainian curriculum teachers providing lessons in a classroom, complemented by international teachers delivering British curriculum lessons online. We are proud to add that three international teachers are currently staying with us on-site. Two are from the UK, and one is from Australia.
Collaboration with international organisations and schools, including those providing online education, and many others also enabled us to expand our modular learning approach, enhancing our primary, secondary, and sixth form programmes. This special set-up allows our students to choose between remote or in-person studies based on their preferences and individual circumstances.
Our classes often get interrupted by air raids, which is our biggest challenge. But our staff and students are very well trained on what to do. When there’s a threat, they calmly go down to the school shelters without panicking. They don’t run, push, or talk loudly. Brave and determined, they continue their lessons in BISU’s secure shelters, which have everything needed, including WiFi and cots for younger students. Parents trust us because we’re prepared and keep their children safe.
“When there’s a threat, they calmly go down to the school shelters without panicking.”
Every day at school, we go beyond one profession, embracing a variety of skills and roles and stepping out of our comfort zones. Our global partners provide insightful sessions, and we actively join CPD webinars. Some of these webinars are organised by our own teachers. They pick topics, explore them, and share what they’ve learned with the rest of the staff. We are all involved in teaching and motivating each other.
Understandably, the situation has had an emotional impact on students, parents, and colleagues. To help with this, we have school psychologists offering mental health support. Some of our team members even joined the Ukrainian military, and we continue to provide them with what they need.
Globally connected
We believe our students will be playing a crucial role in rebuilding Ukraine. Through British education, emphasising internationalism, mutual respect, and cultural tolerance, we aim to nurture open-minded and socially responsible global citizens, eager to create a better tomorrow. Our purpose is to make them aware that, regardless of circumstances, they are part of a broader global community capable of positive change, even now.
To instil this perspective, we organised a series of online talks between our students and their counterparts from Little Heath School in London, designed for children with special needs, and the International School in Queretaro, Mexico.
These sessions were more than just talks; they acted as vibrant bridges between communities, fostering humanity, breaking barriers, and encouraging mutual support. All groups displayed impressive maturity, responsibility, and empathy. BISU students, serving as true ambassadors, shared their experiences of living and studying in Ukraine.
“Our purpose is to make them aware that they are part of a broader global community.”
Also, our children actively participated in a number of impactful international initiatives, including COP28 for schools with a focus on climate issues. They proposed solutions ranging from sustainable energy and waste reduction to species extinction and overfishing, showcasing their awareness of modern-day critical problems and the need for action. They also created artworks to convey environmental urgency to governments worldwide.
Currently, they’re involved in another global project, Empathy Week, exploring the theme of ‘Home’ and telling their stories to people all over the world.
Bold plans
Being forward-looking, we have a plan to build an outstanding education centre outside Kyiv, enhancing access to British education for children in Ukraine. Moreover, we aim to forge an alliance with teachers and sister schools globally to create an innovative learning approach. This model can initially be introduced in Ukraine and, perhaps, extended to other countries in the future.
Additionally, we’re working on getting recognition for IB Diploma and A-levels from Ukrainian universities. This move will open up more opportunities for young people to pursue higher education in Ukraine and strengthen ties with the international community.
Challenges to address
We recognise the importance of having more international teachers at The British International School Ukraine, preferably on-site. Their physical presence boosts students’ academic performance, mental health, behaviour, and attitudes. Alex, our Year 2-3 international teacher, says: “The main solace I take from my experience is that by being here (Kyiv) I am offering continuity, emotional security, and stability to the children I am working with.”
“If young children can go to school in Ukraine every day, so can I.”
The role is demanding as it transcends conventional teaching. At The British International School Ukraine, we’re shaping futures at this pivotal moment of Ukraine’s history and looking for passionate individuals who want to make a real difference.
These dedicated educators will not just share knowledge but inspire and positively impact the lives of young minds in a nation filled with resilience and hope. Matthew, who recently started working in our school in Dnipro, adds: “I have never been a soldier, unfortunately, but I can make a contribution to your noble fight by helping Ukrainian children to speak English as fluently as possible”.
His words bring back memories of our students commemorating Remembrance Day last year. They paid tribute to those who lost their lives in wars and to all those affected by armed conflicts, past and present. Wearing red poppies on their uniforms, our children also honoured Ukraine’s heroic defenders. They did it while hiding… in the shelters, which served as a poignant symbol of the atrocities of any war.
Why?
Why should our schools remain open in Ukraine amidst this uncertainty and chaos? The answer is straightforward, as expressed by Rachel, our Kyiv-based Year 5 international teacher: “If young children can go to school in Ukraine every day, so can I.”