This week we were delighted to welcome Karen Cope from Stand By Me, the local Christian charity, who led a special assembly for the whole school.

Karen introduced our new Year 3 pupils to their sponsor child in Colombia, Matias, who they will follow and support throughout their time at William Ford. As many of our parents will know, each year group in the school sponsors a child through Stand By Me. This unique link means that, from Year 3 to Year 6, children build a lasting connection with a young person in Colombia, getting to know them really well as they journey through school together.

Karen not only introduced Matias, but also gave the children a wonderful insight into life in Colombia. Through stories, pictures, and even a fun quiz, pupils discovered more about the culture, geography, and daily lives of children there. This supports our curriculum where Colombia is woven into topics and learning, helping pupils to make meaningful global links.

Throughout the year, our pupils will also write letters, send Christmas and Easter cards, and receive updates from their sponsor child – deepening the relationship and giving real purpose to their learning.

We would like to say a huge thank you to Karen Cope for her inspiring visit, for introducing us to Matias, and for taking the time to appear on our very own school radio station for a pupil-led interview.

At William Ford, we are proud to support Stand By Me and to play a small part in making a difference to children’s lives while also enriching our own pupils’ education.