Minister appreciates Camphill ethos of inclusion

Staff, children and young people welcomed Mike Russell MSP, the Scottish Government’s Minister for UK Negotiations on Scotland’s Place in Europe, to Camphill School Aberdeen this week.

The Minister was given a tour of the school, and met a group of current and retired co-workers likely to be affected by Brexit. The Minister heard first hand the co-workers’ concerns, and also heard from both the school’s Executive Director and from Camphill Scotland’s Director, about the potential impact of Brexit upon the Camphill communities in Scotland.

Following his visit, Mike Russell MSP tweeted:

Thanks to …[Camphill School Aberdeen] for a stimulating visit – ethos of inclusion and international cooperation built into your history & achievements … [the Scottish Government] will work to help protect and sustain that despite #Brexit

Speaking after the Minister’s visit Laurence Alfred, Executive Director of Camphill School Aberdeen, said:

Camphill School Aberdeen was delighted to host the Minister’s visit. He clearly enjoyed meeting our pupils and teachers as he toured Carnelian Schoolhouse, and then fully engaged with our co-workers as he explained Scotland’s position and answered their questions as best he could given the current lack of clarity around Brexit. The Minister was very supportive of Camphill and of our inclusive approach not only to education but to life generally as evidenced by our multi-international  group of workers.

Neil Henery, Director of Camphill Scotland, noted:

We really appreciated the Minister taking the time to meet students and staff at Camphill School Aberdeen. He recognised the Camphill movement as a shining example of a truly European and international movement that has given a great deal to Scotland and in particular to people with learning disabilities and other support needs.