At Oxford International, we are excited to share an update on our support for the ‘Finding Home in Education’ project. This remarkable initiative, which aligns perfectly with our mission to provide ‘Learning Without Limits’, is a collaborative effort led by the University of East Anglia (UEA) Sanctuary Initiative and King’s College London Sanctuary Programme.
The project explores the theme of ‘Our Home’ from Refugee Week 2024, focusing on the intersection of higher education and sanctuary for displaced individuals.
About the Finding Home in Education Project
In collaboration with Bath STAR (Student Action for Refugees), the project involved a two-day participatory arts workshop held in February, at King’s College London. This workshop, guided by renowned artists Majid Adin and Dana Olarescu, brought together 17 students and academics from nine UK universities to delve into belonging and sanctuary within UK universities. The participants created a series of powerful posters illustrating their experiences of forced displacement and the transformative role of higher education in their lives.
Since March 2024, these posters have been exhibited across UK universities, art institutions, community organisations, and in schools. They are accompanied by a short film from Red 7 Films, which aims to promote understanding and highlight support networks for refugees in higher education.
Oxford International Role and Contributions
Oxford International’s support was crucial in making this project a reality. Our Managing Director, Gary Palmer, emphasises the importance of such initiatives:
“We are proud to have sponsored this project with the UEA Sanctuary Initiative and King’s College London Sanctuary Programme, bringing together a group of talented individuals to explore the power of higher education to provide hope and sanctuary for displaced students.”
Why We Do It
Our mission extends beyond education. At Oxford International, we aim to empower students with comprehensive language skills crucial for effective communication, community integration, and improved employment opportunities. Our global initiative seeks to create accessible educational pathways for all students, regardless of their background and personal circumstances, fostering individual growth and building cohesive communities worldwide.
Programmes and Achievements
Oxford International has a strong history of supporting refugees and displaced people. Since the launch of our specialised online English courses by the Oxford International Digital Institute, we have provided essential language skills to over 1,800 students since they started in early 2022.
With over 70 classes conducted, we offer a structured curriculum tailored to different proficiency levels, ensuring personalised learning experiences. These courses are designed to equip students with practical language skills essential for cultural integration and professional success.
We have partnered with several UK universities, including members of the Russell Group, to provide free and subsidised English language support for refugees. This includes offering free test codes for our Oxford ELLT, enabling displaced students to certify their English language proficiency for university admissions. Our fully online Pre-Sessional English courses are also subsidised for refugee students applying to partner institutions.
Seamless Access and Supportive Environment
Our courses are delivered entirely online and accessible via smartphones, tablets, or laptops, making learning possible from any location. Students gain immediate access to our Virtual Learning Campus (VLC) for supplementary self-guided resources. Upon course completion, students receive a ‘Certificate of Completion’ and ongoing support through follow-up initiatives.
Please visit our website for more information about our programmes and ongoing initiatives at oidigitalinstitute.com
