UKRAINIAN guests have been enjoying English classes in Lymm in recent months.
There has been huge demand with up to 55 Ukrainian adults taking part across three different classes.
As many as 17 local teachers and helpers have joined forces to teach the classes.
Also running parallel to the lessons is a children’s club that caters for more than 20 children to help the kids maintain their Ukrainian heritage. There are also opportunities for baking and sports for teenagers.
The classes – absolute beginners, beginners and intermediate – have been taking place on Wednesday mornings at Lymm Sanctuary Hub and on Saturday mornings at Lymm Baptist Church.
Sarah Rotchell, children and families worker at Lymm Baptist Church said: “When I first found out how many people were willing to host in the Lymm area, I thought it would be really good if they could have a communal hub where they could meet once a week.
“I then found out that there were several people interested in running English classes as well. Because of the space that we have at the church, I knew that we could manage to do everything and host lots of people.
“We also run a school shop and community larder for them too.”
Volunteer Chrissie Knight with guests
There are three different levels for the adult classes
Various subjects are taught
Sarah says she is pleased and proud of what they have achieved.
The 34-year-old added: “It feels like we are doing what we should be doing.
“It’s amazing that there are so many people that have opened up their homes to host but obviously welcoming these people into our local area is far more than just giving them a bed to sleep in, it’s making them feel like they are a part of our community.
“I feel really pleased and proud that we have opened up an opportunity for people who can’t host to volunteer and help in other ways as well whether it’s just serving tea or coffee or playing with the children, whatever they can do.”
The classes are soon halting for a summer break before returning in early September.
Deborah helping Ukranian guests during the session
The sessions will soon take a break for summer before returning
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