On Thursday 4th December, our ESOL learners gathered outside the British Museum for a very special tour. Many of the group are newly arrived asylum seekers, and for several of them this was not only their first visit to the museum, but also their very first time in central London, a milestone that brought a real sense of excitement and achievement.
We were warmly welcomed by our ESOL guide, Sophie, whose energy and enthusiasm set the tone for the day. She created an open, supportive atmosphere that encouraged everyone to speak, share, and ask questions. Sophie introduced learners to historical primary sources from around the world, prompting discussions that helped them make personal connections between the objects and their own cultures.
For many, this was a powerful moment: recognising familiar traditions, stories, and artefacts within such a world-famous collection. Sophie even located items linked to learners’ home countries and guided the group through analysing ancient writing systems, including hieroglyphics and cuneiform.
The highlights of the tour included viewing the Rosetta Stone, exploring Mesopotamian clay tablets, and discovering Greek artefacts that told complex historical stories. We ended our journey in the Africa galleries, which brought huge joy to many of the learners. They were thrilled to see objects from their own regions and proudly explained how these items are used and celebrated in their cultures. You can see this wonderful moment captured in the photo below.
After a long and enriching tour, tired feet and full minds called for a break, so we rounded off the day with a well-deserved sandwich and a coffee before making our way home.
Read some feedback about the trip from one of our learners: I found some clay, and I was happy because it reminded me of my mum keeping food, milk and water in a similar clay pot. My Queen, my mother.
Dear Savannah and Savannah’s friends thank you for supporting us, God bless you.
