Schools across the Diocese of Winchester are preparing to unveil a powerful art installation at Winchester Cathedral as part of their ‘Bags of Hope’ diocesan education project.
This year’s project has helped children explore the challenges faced by migrants, refugees and displaced people. Paddington backpacks and Paddington bears have been used to deepen their understanding and empathy for those forced to flee their homes because of war, persecution or poverty. They’ve learnt how we can live out the Gospel teachings of welcome and compassion for strangers.
Tied to backpacks in the Cathedral will flow thousands of coloured luggage labels, created by the pupils with poems, reflections and prayers.
Watch a video here from pupils from Epiphany School in Bournemouth, St Lawrence School in Alton and St Mary’s in Bentworth who shared thoughts on their learning:
The installation will be set up ahead of the annual Year 6 leaver’s celebration services and builds on the success of last year’s TriWonder wildlife installation which was widely admired by visitors and later hung at various churches around the diocese.
The luggage labels will also include QR codes linking visitors to the schools’ work and reflections. Schools have spent the year exploring themes through lessons, books and films, poetry, art, prayer spaces and discussion activities. They’ve studied the experiences of refugee children of their own age and reflected on what they would put in their suitcase if they had to leave home.
Franklin, 11, from St Mary’s School in Bentworth, said, “We have been learning that refugees come from many different places, and it doesn’t matter if you are a refugee, we’re all the same and that’s what matters most.”
Jothan, 11, from Epiphany School in Bournemouth, commented, “I’ve learned that it’s quite a privilege to have the life that most of us in England have, being safe in our own homes and not having to evacuate, being able to come to school, learn, have food and water and have family around us as well.”
Maisie, 11, from St Lawrence School in Alton, said, “41% of refugees are children. It must be scary to be in a country where there’s conflict and you don’t know if you’ll be able to go back or still be able to see your friends.”
Paddington Bear was chosen deliberately as, in the story, he was a refugee from Peru and treated with kindness by strangers. Teddies also represent comfort, safety, and home.
Director of Education for the Diocese of Winchester, Revd Canon Jeff Williams, said, “Together, we believe that we can make a difference by embracing Biblical values of welcoming strangers and standing up for those in need. Schools and parishes have joined us in this journey of hope and advocacy as we work to create a culture of kindness, understanding, and support for displaced individuals.”
Alongside the artwork, schools and parishes have been invited to donate backpacks and Paddington Bear soft toys for refugee children. Following the exhibitions, the bears and bags will be distributed to charities supporting displaced families.
The Year 6 Leavers services take place throughout the week of 22–26 June, involving pupils from 150 Church of England schools across the diocese. The end of year services and installations are incredibly popular with pupils, many of whom bring their families to see the completed work in the days and weeks following the services. The installation will remain on display for visitors, worshippers, tourists, and families until the end of August. People can also add their own luggage labels each day.
