Article
Inspiring Journey: Ukrainian Learners Achieve Top GCSE Results
07 October 2024
Two Ukrainian learners have achieved outstanding GCSE results despite fleeing their home in war-torn Ukraine and having to adapt to life in the UK.
Yelyzaveta Kalianova (Lisa) from Ysgol Cwm Brombil and Danylo Vildanov from St Joseph’s Catholic School and Sixth Form, both excelled in their recent GCSE exams.
Lisa achieved an impressive 11 GCSEs, while Danylo secured 10 GCSEs, with both students earning a Distinction in Additional Mathematics. These remarkable results have been achieved with support from school based staff, Ukrainian Bilingual Teaching Assistants and Neath Port Talbot Council’s Vulnerable Learners Service, who have played a key role in helping them to maximise their potential.
Their achievements are particularly remarkable given that it has been less than two years since both learners arrived in Neath Port Talbot from war-torn Ukraine. The families of Lisa and Danylo were offered sanctuary and a chance for a new, safe home in Neath Port Talbot under the Welsh Government’s Homes for Ukraine Scheme. Despite the challenges, both learners have thrived academically and personally.
Lisa dedicates her free time to singing, playing the Bandura (Ukraine’s national instrument), and folk dancing to raise awareness and funds for medical supplies for Ukraine. Danylo assists his mother in baking cakes to raise funds for Ukraine. Both students also participated in Neath Port Talbot’s Refugee Week celebrations in June 2024, using the theme of “Our Home” to express their gratitude to their teachers, schools, and Neath Port Talbot Council for their warm welcome.
Councillor Nia Jenkins, Neath Port Talbot Council’s Cabinet Member for Education & Early Years, said: “We are incredibly proud of Lisa and Danylo, and others in similar circumstances, for their outstanding achievements. Their resilience and dedication are truly inspiring.
“The support provided by our schools and the Vulnerable Learners Service has been crucial in helping them succeed. Additionally, the warm welcome and ongoing support from their local communities have played a significant role in their journey.
“We are committed to ensuring that all learners, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to thrive in our schools.”