What began as support through Educate the Kids, a charity‑run school providing education for children facing extreme poverty, has evolved into a vibrant international connection. Over the past decade, the partnership has delivered vital resources, strengthened teaching practice and created meaningful opportunities for learners and staff on both continents.
Speaking about the journey so far, ESOL lecturer Esther Wilkey, reflected on the practical impact of the College’s long‑term fundraising:
“We’ve been fundraising for around 10 years now. In that time, we’ve provided the internet in their school as well as laminators, laminating pouches and supplied chairs for the kindergarten.”
From improved digital access to essential classroom equipment, these contributions have supported Jolaurabi School in enhancing learning environments for its pupils.
This week, the College was thrilled to welcome Jolaurabi’s headteacher, Edward Bwire, to campus — a visit that recognises and celebrates the ongoing impact of the partnership.
A key pillar of the collaboration has been the professional development of teachers. Since 2016, Esther has travelled to Jolaurabi School to conduct joint lesson observations and deliver CPD training tailored to staff needs.
“It’s been really rewarding to keep this work going,” she shared. “When we look back each year, the progress the teachers have made is incredible.”
After each visit, training is designed around the observations, and participating teachers receive CPD certificates from Bradford College which is a source of real pride within the school community.
Meanwhile, the ESOL department continues to play a central role in supporting the partnership through its annual Business Enterprise fundraising event.
The connection between learners has also grown significantly. Cristina Nicolae, ESOL Curriculum Team Leader, highlighted the increasing enthusiasm among students:
“We’ve built really strong communication with our partners, and our learners are more engaged than ever.”
One of the most cherished activities is the annual letter‑writing exchange. Each year, students share stories about their lives, cultures and educational experiences which are relationships that have blossomed into genuine friendships.
“This year we received more letters than ever, showing how the partnership continues to grow,” Cristina added.
For Jolaurabi School, the partnership has had a clear impact on teaching quality and student outcomes. Edward described how the regular observations and CPD have strengthened classroom practice:
“Since Esther began visiting our school and carrying out joint observations, the quality of teaching has really improved.”
He also praised the benefits of the pen‑pal exchanges:
“The letter exchanges have strengthened our pupils’ English and communication skills. It’s created a strong, meaningful relationship between Bradford College and Jolaurabi School.”
This collaborative approach has contributed to impressive academic progress:
“Our school is now among the best in the area, with students performing strongly in their national exams. The support we’ve received… has made a real difference to learning.”
Looking ahead, fundraising efforts this year will support Edward in launching a new reading scheme and home‑loan library system, helping pupils access books and develop literacy beyond the classroom.
At the same time, Bradford College’s 16–18 ESOL learners continue their pen‑pal programme with pupils from Hoyle Court Primary School, encouraging cultural curiosity and celebrating the power of education.
Both institutions are excited about the next phase of collaboration, including hopes to welcome a group of Jolaurabi learners to Bradford College later this year. Plans are also underway for a joint Shakespeare workshop, offering students in both countries the chance to explore the timeless themes of the Bard together.
As the partnership enters its second decade, its impact is clear.
Together, Bradford College and Jolaurabi School are not only improving educational experiences, but they are also shaping global citizens, strengthening cultural understanding and inspiring the next generation of learners and teachers.
The collaboration so far has been truly rewarding, and we look forward to working on continued and future projects together.
Find out more about our ESOL classes here.
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