International students enjoy a taste of Scotland at memorable ceilidh
Stirling School of English celebrated Burns Night with a ceilidh at the Albert Halls last week.
The event was funded by Victoria League Scotland Trust, administered by Foundation Scotland.
Over 90 people from more than 20 countries helped make the evening a success including 19 university students and 31 refugees.
Peter Gilchrist piped in the haggis, Hugh Mccann addressed “the Great Chieftain o’the Puddin’ Race” and raised a dram‘ to the Haggis’, then Margaret Mccann gave the Immortal Memory.
Following the traditional supper of haggis, neeps and tatties – with trifle for dessert – the school’s students, volunteers and guests took the floor with some Scottish country dancing – Gay Gordons, Strip the Willow, Dashing White Sergeant and many more, expertly taught by Margaret Mccann and Duncan Mccallum.
Michael Cullens had everyone join in with traditional Scottish songs. Catherine Burns recited poems by Burns and Janet Johnston and her dancers performed a Scottish Country Dance medley.
The celebration helped students make new friends, strengthen links between different cultural groups, and develop an appreciation of Scottish heritage and culture.
Feedback included: “it is really beautiful to see some tradition of Scotland, especially the dancing and the food and friendly people. I really enjoy it. ”(student from Saudi Arabia); “perfect – learnt dancing. Burns poetry new to me.” (student from China); and “fun! Good opportunity to learn about Scotland.” (refugee student from Ukraine).
Stirling School of English SCIO is a voluntary organisation that aims to provide low-cost English language tuition to all whose first language is not English. Last semester the volunteer tutors helped over 140 learners, including more than 70 Ukrainian refugees.
The school’s main aim is to deliver English classes that reflect students’ needs, but it also has a wider responsibility in providing opportunities for social interaction, education on Scottish culture, and assistance with practical matters relating to life in this country.