A north Belfast primary school has become the 50th in Northern Ireland to receive a School of Sanctuary award for its role in celebrating diversity and enriching its community.

Wheatfield Primary School is one of an increasing number to achieve the award in recognition of how it embraces differences and provides a safe and welcoming environment for all.

Almost a fifth of pupils at the school have settled in Belfast from countries including Turkey, Syria and Russia.

“My kids really love here,” said Joyce Acquah, whose family originally hail from Ghana.

“There was something I was thinking about when I was moving here – how are my kids going to integrate into the system because it’s new to them?

“But they really feel welcome and we feel welcome – the teachers are really good to us,” Joyce said.

“Here is actually a beautiful. The only problem here is actually the weather!” joked Bekir Karanal who moved here from Turkey.

“I feel like I am at my own home because I feel welcome here.”

https://www.itv.com/6a69ac71-a682-4ee1-a2d9-930b10096437