Ukrainian Schoolchildren in Britain Forced to Take Russian Exam: What is Happening.

According to ТСН: Students from Ukraine studying in Great Britain find themselves in a difficult situation. The absence of a school exam in the Ukrainian language compels them to take the exam in Russian, causing significant psychological discomfort.

Students' Experience

Lyuba, a student who moved to Britain in 2022, shared her experience:

“I remember being asked to speak Russian in a class, and I just started crying because I couldn't bring myself to say anything. I was very stressed, nervous, and it was unpleasant for me.”

The exam consisted of listening, reading, writing, and speaking parts. Although the teacher supported Lyuba, speaking Russian was extremely difficult. Two other Ukrainian students in the school also took this subject, as it helped raise the overall grade, but most students want the option to take the Ukrainian language exam.

Challenges in Taking the Exam

Instructor Inna Hryhorovych noted:

“Until 1995, the Ukrainian exam existed in Great Britain, but it was canceled due to the small number of children. Now Ukrainian students face stress—sometimes schools directly encourage them to take the Russian exam in order to improve success statistics. Some firmly refuse, but even the proposal to take Russian is traumatic for them.”

Currently, the Ukrainian community is working on restoring the Ukrainian language exam. This initiative has received support from the British Parliament, the Ministry of Education of Ukraine, the Foreign Ministry, and the embassy. The final decision depends on the AQA organization, which is considering the request.

Preserving Identity

Hryhorovych added:

“Children with temporary protection will return home, so they need to preserve their identity and language; otherwise, they will have to overcome educational losses again after returning.”

The Ukrainian community proposes to conduct exams based on Saturday and Sunday schools, involving Ukrainian teachers as instructors, as resources are already available.

It was previously reported that the rules for crossing the border with minors have changed since the beginning of the full-scale invasion. Now, the consent of both parents is not always required.

The situation regarding the Ukrainian language exam in Great Britain highlights the importance of preserving culture and language for Ukrainian children forced to study in a foreign country. Restoring the exam could significantly ease their education and maintain cultural identity amidst emigration.