City of York welcomes international staff and students

Around 60 International staff and students working and studying at York’s further and higher education institutions were formally welcomed to the city last week by the Rt Hon the Lord Mayor, Cllr David Horton at an event organised by Higher York. Each year, York’s universities and further education colleges receive over 3,600 international staff and students who bring fantastic cultural diversity to the city.

The festive event was held at the Mansion House and gave the students the chance to find out all about the building and some of York’s fascinating history. The Lord Mayor, Sherriff and Sherriff’s Lady not only formally welcomed the students but also led a tour of the Mansion House and shared stories of York’s past. Kersten England, Chief Executive of City of York Council added her welcome, encouraging the students to consider themselves as honorary people of York. There were also some excellent photo opportunities with all students posing with the civic party as well as capturing pictures of some of the amazing memorabilia on display.

Students from around 20 countries were represented at the event and all are currently studying at either, York St John University, the University of York, York College or Askham Bryan College. The Lord Mayor said: ‘International students and staff bring so much to our city and I’m delighted to be able to welcome them to York on behalf of residents. I hope they will enjoy their time in the city and come to think of York as a home from home during their time here.’

Chaya Manawamma who is from Sri Lanka and studying at York St John University said, 'I feel honoured to have been invited for this event and there is no doubt that people in York are welcoming to International students. I already feel very at home here in York'.

Claire Newhouse, Acting Director of Higher York said ‘The partnership between York’s colleges and universities continues to flourish and this event is just one of the ways partners are working together to welcome students to the city.