On sunday I was very privileged to visit the new Kurdish School based at The Warren. I received a warm welcome from Alan Azad Ahmad and the volunteers and students at the school.

It was  a really special day the new year holiday of Newroz in Kurdish society. In Kurdish legend, the holiday celebrates the deliverance of the Kurds from a tyrant, and it is seen as another way of demonstrating support for the Kurdish cause.The celebration coincides with the Northward equinox which falls mainly on 21 March and the festival is held usually between 18 and 24 March. The festival currently has an important place in the terms of Kurdish identity for the majority of Kurds.

Though celebrations vary, people generally gather together to welcome the coming of spring; people wear coloured clothes and dance.

This  new Kurdish school has been set up in Hull and it already has almost 50 pupils. The organisation aims to promote Kurdish culture in the city and help ensure it becomes a part of Hull’s community.

We teach youngsters about Kurdish culture, history and heritage but they also sing and learn music.

“What has been happening in the Middle East with Islamic State (IS) and in Syria is overshadowing its rich history. “We want to take on the likes of IS and provide something positive about our culture.

“The school is going really well and is run by volunteers. “We want Kurdish people to be part of the Hull community and also help people here learn more about our culture. The school is open to anyone.”