ESOL learners and staff from Lewisham College joined Little Amal as she made her way through Deptford to support an international campaign to help young refugees access education and rebuild their lives.

During the event, participants shared their experiences and individual journeys to the UK and had the opportunity to join in the Amal and the Giant Fairground Wheel event, organised by Lewisham, Borough of Culture, to welcome Amal to Lewisham and show their support to refugees in their local community.

Magda Masulanda, ESOL student, said: "I'm pleased to have been able to Walk with Amal today to show our support to refugees in our local community.

"I joined Lewisham College three years ago, and it has been a great experience for me. During my course, I have learned English and improved my communication skills, which has helped me adapt to life in the UK and become part of the community."

Maria Stamati-Knipe, ESOL Lecturer at Lewisham College, who attended the event, said: "Participating in the walk was a wonderful opportunity for our learners and the people that joined in.

"Our learners felt proud of the borough and how everyone came together to show their support to refugees across the world. Some of our learners are refugees, and it is very important for them to know they're welcome here and are part of our community, especially for those who are away from their family and friends."

The Walk is an international arts festival meets endurance event. Little Amal, a 3.5-metre-tall puppet, has travelled from Syria to Manchester to shine a light on the stories of millions of young refugees who are forced to undertake extraordinary journeys under challenging conditions in search of an opportunity for a better life.