Refugee Week holds profound significance for Chester Hill Intensive English Centre, where 70  per cent of students come from refugee backgrounds.

The week is a chance to honour resilience, share powerful stories of survival, and deepen the school community’s understanding of freedom, belonging, and human connection.

Throughout the week, students and staff embarked on a journey together.

They shared the inspiring stories of students, alumni, and staff who navigated complex paths in search of safety and a new life.

Each day revolved around themes like resilience and freedom, highlighting real-life examples of perseverance and success. Hearing these lived experiences helped students walk in another’s shoes, build empathy, and feel less alone.

By offering space to tell personal refugee stories—both past and present—the students and staff reinforced the deep value of peace, perseverance, and the safety found in Australia.

Through sharing and listening, the school community not only celebrated diversity but recognised our shared humanity.

Refugee Week reminded us why it’s essential to create environments where every student feels seen, heard, and supported.