Assemblies about the Russia/Ukraine war

Student wellbeing

In light of recent events in Ukraine, we felt it was important to talk about the Russia/Ukraine conflict with the students to ensure they
know they can talk to our teachers and support staff if they feel the need.

The geo-political context

We heard from our Human Science teacher Bob, who described the geo-political context of the conflict and spoke of the importance of media literacy at this (the need to critically evaluate your sources). We also discussed how, as a European School, we should be mindful of how to hold empathetic, diplomatic conversations when we talk to others about the conflict and the importance of avoiding prejudice at this time.

Our values and the aim of the European Schools

We were reminded of our values and the aim of the European Schools, who were founded in the aftermath of WW2, which is to educate people of different nationalities “side by side” without prejudice.

Marcel Decombis, member of the cabinet of Jean Monnet and Head of the European School Luxembourg between 1953 and 1960, expressed the aim as follows:

“Educated side by side, untroubled from infancy by divisive prejudices, acquainted with all that is great and good in the different cultures, it will be borne in upon them as they mature that they belong together. Without ceasing to look to their own lands with love and pride, they will become in mind Europeans, schooled and ready to complete and consolidate the work of their fathers before them, to bring into being a united and thriving Europe.”