Peterborough's Bulgarian community gets its own Sunday School

Based at the Paston Farm Community centre, it has been established following requests from Bulgarian families living in the city and the surrounding area who wanted their children to have greater access to Bulgarian language education closer to home.

The school follows the Bulgarian educational curriculum, helping children develop their reading, writing and spoken Bulgarian. Lessons also include music, games, stories, creative activities, poetry, Bulgarian traditions and national celebrations, allowing children to experience the language and culture in an enjoyable and engaging way.

The Peterborough branch will offer age-appropriate groups, including preschool provision for younger children. Its aim is to create a warm, supportive environment where children can build friendships, grow in confidence and develop pride in their Bulgarian heritage while continuing to thrive as members of British society.

Lora Mancheva, Director and Teacher at Bulgarian Sunday School “Rayna Knyaginya”, said: “Our school is about much more than textbooks and grammar. We want Bulgarian to feel alive for the children through songs, stories, traditions, performances and happy memories. They should never feel that they have to choose between being Bulgarian and being part of British society. They can be proud of both.”»

The official opening was attended by Peterborough City Councillors Ivelina Banyalieva and Alex Rafiq.

The school expressed particular thanks to Councillor Banyalieva for supporting the initiative, assisting with the search for a suitable venue and encouraging the development of the new Peterborough branch.

Councillor Banyalieva said: “Peterborough has a large and growing Bulgarian community, and it is important that children have opportunities to learn their language, understand their heritage and celebrate their culture. This school will not only support Bulgarian families but will also make a positive contribution to Peterborough’s diverse and multicultural community.”

The school hopes to work closely with local organisations and participate in community and cultural events, giving pupils opportunities to represent Bulgaria through language, music, poetry, dance and traditions.

Enrolment for the new academic year remains open to Bulgarian families in Peterborough and the surrounding areas. Registration is available at: https://www.bgschool-wisbech.uk/zapisvane/

As the Peterborough branch grows, the school is also seeking enthusiastic teachers and people with relevant teaching, childcare or educational experience.