College students visit Auschwitz

9:30am Sunday 11th May 2008

PUPILS from Evesham and Malvern Hills College made a trip to Auschwitz in Poland recently in a project designed to increase understanding of the holocaust.

Travel and tourism students Charlotte Sheed, Sylwia Nowak, and learning support services manager Eileen McMahon travelled to the former Nazi extermination camp of Auschwitz-Birkenau as part of the Lessons From Auschwitz Project, organised through the Holocaust Educational Trust (HET).

For 17 year-old Sylwia Nowak, who moved to England from Poland two years ago, the trip had added poignancy as a member of her family perished at the camp.

She said: "Coming here has been very emotional, but it has been very important for me to see.

"I think everyone should come here and be made to realise what happened. We must never forget all those people who were murdered.

"I have found it very moving, and at times I felt angry, but I hope that the realisation of this place will help us make a better future."

Since 1999 nearly 5,000 sixth form students have taken part in the HET's groundbreaking lessons based on the premise that hearing is not like seeing', as they explore the universal lessons of the holocaust and its relevance for today.

All three also took part in the initial seminar at Aston University in April, alongside staff and students from schools and colleges across the Midlands.

In addition, Miss Nowak responded to inquiries regarding language and cultural aspects particular to Poland and offered to translate for the group coordinator.

The visit finished with a special service of remembrance at the memorial erected within Auschwitz.

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