Proud to be a College of Sanctuary

Creating a safe and welcoming environment for all our students is a priority at the colleges and providers that make up the Education Training Collective. We are incredibly proud that Stockton Riverside College and Redcar and Cleveland College officially hold College of Sanctuary status. This highlights the commitment of both the individual colleges and the group to create a welcoming, inclusive and supportive environment for people seeking sanctuary.

The College of Sanctuary initiative is a UK-wide programme run by City of Sanctuary UK, recognising colleges that provide welcoming and inclusive environments for people seeking sanctuary, while promoting access to education, raising awareness and strengthening community engagement. 

This recognition reflects a long-standing commitment to ensuring all learners feel valued, respected and supported, regardless of their background or circumstances. We recently caught up with Brittany Iveson, ESOL lecturer (English for Speakers of Other Languages) at Stockton Riverside College about what being a College of Sanctuary means for our students, staff and the wider community. 

Creating opportunities through education: 

Explaining the significance of this award, Brittany said: “Being recognised as a College of Sanctuary means a college has demonstrated a genuine commitment to welcoming and supporting people seeking sanctuary. The award recognises the work taking place to create an inclusive environment, remove barriers to education and help learners succeed.” 

She added: “We are incredibly proud to have achieved this and we demonstrate this through creating a culture of welcome, safety and belonging, supporting access to education and progression opportunities, raising awareness of refugee and asylum experiences, equipping staff to better understand the challenges faced by people seeking sanctuary, and working with local organisations and communities to provide support and opportunities.” 

The recognition closely aligns with the values that underpin the Etc. group. “Being a College of Sanctuary is a natural reflection of who we are as a college,” said Brittany. “It aligns closely with our values of being high performing but with heart, aspirational but with humanity, and proud to serve our students and communities. These principles guide how we support every learner, including those who have come to the UK seeking safety.” 

Strengthening inclusion across the college: 

Since achieving College of Sanctuary status, the Etc. has continued to build upon its inclusive culture and strengthen support networks for learners. “Achieving College of Sanctuary status has helped strengthen conversations around inclusion, a sense of belonging and cultural understanding across the college,” explained Brittany. “We have continued to develop staff awareness, increase opportunities for students to share their experiences, and strengthen partnerships with local organisations that support people seeking sanctuary.” 

She added that the recognition has reinforced the importance of listening to students and ensuring their voices help shape future plans and activities. For students seeking sanctuary, the impact can be life-changing. “It means joining a college where they are welcomed, respected and supported to succeed,” said Brittany. “We recognise that many learners arrive with valuable skills, experiences and aspirations, while also adapting to life in a new country and community.” 

Many sanctuary-seeking students begin their educational journey through the college’s ESOL provision, developing language skills, confidence and connections before progressing into vocation al and academic programmes across the college. 

A welcoming environment for everyone: 

While College of Sanctuary status directly benefits learners seeking sanctuary, its impact extends across the entire college community. “Principles of welcome, inclusion and understanding benefit everyone,” said Brittany. “By creating a culture where people feel safe, respected and valued, we improve the experience of all learners.” 

She explained that this commitment promotes greater cultural awareness, stronger relationships and a deeper appreciation of the diverse experiences students bring to college life. The college also plays an important role within the wider community. 

“As a College of Sanctuary, we play an active role in supporting integration and community cohesion,” Brittany said. “We work alongside local authorities, voluntary organisations and community groups to help people access learning and opportunities. By sharing expertise, collaborating with partners and responding to local needs, we contribute to building a stronger, more connected community for everyone.” 

Why it matters: 

At a time when millions of people around the world have been displaced by conflict and persecution, colleges have an important role to play in supporting those seeking safety and a fresh start. “The College of Sanctuary initiative helps ensure that those seeking safety are met with understanding, inclusion and opportunity,” said Brittany. “Education can play a vital role in helping people rebuild their lives and contribute to their communities.” 

Asked why someone should choose to study or work at a College of Sanctuary, she highlighted the positive culture it creates. “A College of Sanctuary is a place where all people matter. Students and staff become part of a community that values kindness, respect, diversity and opportunity. Choosing to study or work in this environment means being part of a college that actively promotes inclusion, celebrates different experiences and is committed to helping everyone achieve their potential.” 

Getting involved: 

There are many ways staff and students can support the College of Sanctuary initiative, from taking part in awareness-raising activities and cultural celebrations to volunteering with community organisations and helping create a welcoming environment for all. 

As Brittany concludes: “Most importantly, everyone can contribute by showing kindness, respect and curiosity towards others, helping to ensure that Stockton Riverside College remains a place where everyone feels they belong.” 

For Etc., College of Sanctuary status is more than an award – it is a reflection of a commitment to transforming lives through education, championing inclusion and creating opportunities for every learner to thrive.