A vibrant Refugee Week celebration was held at HTAE’s Avenues Adult Education Centre to celebrate Refugee Week 2026.
A special Refugee Week celebration was held at the Avenues Adult Education Centre, bringing together learners, staff and the wider community.

This year’s Refugee Week theme, Courage, was at the heart of the celebration, with more than 40 learners attending and sharing their own personal reflections on what courage means to them.

Refugee Week is an annual event dedicated to recognising the contributions, resilience and achievements of refugees across the UK. This year’s theme shines a light on the strength it takes to rebuild lives, embrace new opportunities and support others within the community.

The event, held at the Avenues Adult Education Centre, Park Avenue, Hull, was filled with culture, connection and celebration.

ESOL learners and staff brought along a wide range of homemade dishes, proudly sharing food from their countries of origin, while many also wore traditional dress to celebrate their heritage.

Throughout the morning, music and laughter filled the space as learners, staff and visitors came together to enjoy the celebrations. The event provided an opportunity for individuals to connect, learn about different cultures and reflect on shared experiences.

A key part of the event saw learners opening up about what courage means to them - from starting a new life in a different country, to returning to learning and building confidence in a new environment.

Staff at the centre praised the event for bringing people together and creating an inclusive and supportive space where learners feel valued and empowered.

Events like this continue to play an important role in strengthening community connections, promoting understanding, and celebrating the diverse backgrounds that enrich learning at the Avenues Centre.