How London’s largest adult education college is recognising Refugee Week

In recognition of Refugee Week 2026 (15th – 21st June), London’s largest adult education college, City Lit, is set to host a series of short courses designed to bring people together through learning. …

How London’s largest adult education college is recognising Refugee Week

In recognition of Refugee Week 2026 (15th – 21st June), London’s largest adult education college, City Lit, is set to host a series of short courses designed to bring people together through learning.

To honour the world’s largest arts and culture festival, celebrating the contributions, creativity and resilience of refugees, students are invited to connect and reflect during shared learning experiences designed to explore ideas, histories and creative practices that highlight the strength and contributions of people seeking sanctuary.

The 2026 theme ‘Our Home’ builds on the college’s ongoing commitment to supporting refugees and asylum seekers year‑round, fostering safety, belonging and compassion. These courses offer not only skills and knowledge, but also a community where diversity is embraced, and ambitions are realised.

Refugee Week online and in-person course topics include the roots of racism, public art by refugees, rhetoric and refugees in politics, pop culture and the press, and more.

The college also runs free courses in ESOL, English, maths, and digital skills for refugees and asylum seekers throughout the year, as part of its journey towards becoming a fully accredited College of Sanctuary.

City Lit Principal Mark Malcomson CBE comments:

“Since our founding in 1919, we have been a place of welcome and opportunity, opening the doors of education to people from all walks of life.

 

“Through our recognition of Refugee Week and our journey to become a College of Sanctuary, we reaffirm our commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment for those seeking sanctuary.

 

We look forward to continuing to celebrate diversity, value the skills and experiences of those who have been forced to migrate from their homes to seek sanctuary in the UK, and work together to build a more compassionate and connected society.”

City Lit’s Refugee Week course start dates run from 9th June to 1st July 2026.

Further information on how to enrol can be found on the City Lit website.