The city of Zaporizhzhia today lives in the realities of war. It cannot be otherwise when terrible events unfold just 30 kilometers from home. Despite air raids, news from the front, and daily challenges, the city continues to be a place where children grow and develop. For many parents, it is important that in these difficult conditions their children not only have a safe space but also opportunities to learn and broaden their horizons. One such safe and inspiring environment is the children’s English club at the Reimer Center. Here, children can learn English for free and develop their knowledge while playing and communicating in a friendly atmosphere.
This group has been meeting for more than a year. Its story began with the initiative of parents who were bringing their children to the children’s Christian club at the Reimer Center. They saw how eagerly the children absorbed new things and asked to organize English lessons for them, as it had already been done for teenagers. That is how this story began, eventually growing into regular meetings filled with games, learning, and support.
Over the summer holidays, the participants grew — both literally and figuratively: they became older, more attentive, more responsible. Most importantly, they kept their desire to learn. Now the group consists of seven students. Nine-year-old Andrii, upon entering the classroom, immediately sat at the desk, folded his hands in front of him, and prepared to listen attentively. The girls — Halia, Myroslava, and Milana — best friends who always stick together, enthusiastically told the teacher about the latest events from school life. But as soon as the lesson began, they quickly focused on the tasks, happy to learn English again among friends. This was the first class of the new season, so in a playful form, competing with each other, they reviewed what had been studied earlier.
The atmosphere of the club is built on trust and support. There is no fear of making a mistake here, because every step is progress. Children can honestly say when they do not understand or know something. As teacher Olha notes: “The children amaze us with their persistence. They come with a desire to learn, and that inspires us to continue.”
In times of war, the Center’s team especially realizes the value of every opportunity to support children. The English club is not only an educational initiative but also a space where children experience joy, a sense of safety, and confidence. They also have the chance to attend other Center activities such as the children’s club, various workshops, and gatherings.
