Families from Ukraine living in Cheshire have welcomed plans for a new Ukrainian GCSE, saying it celebrates their culture while helping children build a future in the UK.
The Ukrainian GCSE is set to be introduced for pupils in England, Wales and Northern Ireland from September 2028, with the first assessments taking place a year later.
Members of the Ukrainian Family Hub Warrington said the move would help young people maintain links to their heritage while gaining a recognised qualification.
Adrienne Laing, the chairwoman of the hub, said it was “really important recognition” of the Ukrainian language and culture.
Laing said the announcement came as many Ukrainians were reaching the end of their first extended visas.
“Most of our members, when they first arrived, thought they would be going home within six months,” she said.
“Most of them, if not all of them, would desperately love to return home, but at the moment they really can’t.
“Recognition of their language, culture and country is both a symbol and a practical form of support.”