Earlier this term the Principal wrote to the Old Berkhamstedians concerning work that the School is currently engaged in with some of the most disadvantaged young people in our society – and their families. The School has developed good relationships with the Local Authority and this led to a second area of recent activity. Virtual School staff have overseen the educational provision for Afghan evacuees, including the substantial number lodging in hotels within East Herts. The families in this accommodation have fled from Afghanistan with little more than cabin luggage – some were in great danger when the prisons were opened by the Taliban in each city that they overpowered, particularly any who had worked in law enforcement or the legal system.  

Following a request on behalf of the Local Authority, the School extends heartfelt thanks to all who donated items for a local community of Afghan nationals who were evacuated from Afghanistan following this summer’s events. The response was overwhelming, with a huge number of bags and boxes brought to the School’s sites. Hertfordshire County Council collected the items to distribute as needed.

Thank you to our school and OB community for supporting this initiative; your kindness and generosity is much appreciated.