Mariam* is 12 years old and lives in Bristol. She is originally from Eritrea and speaks Tigrinya, Arabic, and English. She arrived in the UK in 2024 to join her father. Before coming to the UK her education was repeatedly disrupted as she and her family had to move seeking safety. Her father describes how hard it often was, waiting to start school again.
Mariam says that when she first arrived at her new school, it was “different”, “very big”, and “sometimes confusing”. Mariam was matched with two Jacari peer tutors, Lala and Rhea* who are both bilingual, with Lala speaking Arabic.
“I’ve been fortunate enough to grow up in both English and Arabic [...] Being able to speak to Jacari students in their own language […] can create a sense of familiarity and comfort, making it easier for them to understand and engage.” Lala, Jacari sixth-form peer tutor
Rhea says that she could see the difference that Jacari had made for Mariam:
“Over the course of volunteering with Jacari, I watched Mariam grow into a more confident young girl, whether it be her English speaking, confidence to ask a question, or to try something that she found difficult.” Rhea, Jacari sixth-form peer tutor
Mariam says it was difficult to speak when she first arrived at the school, but that it’s a lot different now. One of the things that helps her feel more confident now is her friends. She says Jacari was helpful for her reading, writing, and schoolwork, and she enjoyed playing games and going on trips. Her favourite subject is English because she likes to learn new words.
“Jacari really increased Mariam’s sense of belonging in school as she made friends with pupils in her year group who were also receiving Jacari support. Jacari has definitely helped her settle into her new school more quickly.” Teacher at Mariam’s school
Mariam’s father speaks of how Mariam enjoyed her Jacari sessions and how much improvement he’s seen in her over the school year. He sees Jacari as offering a great opportunity both to improve skills and to welcome new students.
The final words go to Mariam:
“So fun” Mariam, on Jacari tutoring
*All names have been changed
