North East Solidarity and Teaching (N.E.S.T)

N.E.S.T

North East Solidarity and Teaching (N.E.S.T) is a student-led initiative based at Newcastle University that focuses on providing education and support to refugees and asylum seekers who have been forcibly displaced in the region. N.E.S.T seeks to empower individuals through education, skills development, and community engagement, equipping them with the tools necessary to rebuild their lives and integrate into their new communities. Annually, N.E.S.T offers support to more than 500 refugee and asylum-seeking children, teenagers and adults in Newcastle. 

N.E.S.T Schools' Project: 

The N.E.S.T Schools Project came about in September 2021 as a result of a shared need between N.E.S.T and the Newcastle City Council to improve the youth support and education provided to refugee and asylum-seeking children in Newcastle. Since its formation, it has rapidly expanded to work with over 200 children on a weekly basis.

We are currently providing support in 9 schools, including Kenton Bar Primary School, Cheviot Primary School, Welbeck Academy, Christ Church C of E Primary School, Throckley Primary School, Simonside Primary School, Jesmond Park Academy and Benfield School.

The work of an incredible team of over 50 volunteers has allowed us to provide lunch time, after school and reading comprehension activities that help these children to read, make friends, and grow more confident.