**Ukrainian Teacher Hopes to Return Home**
A Ukrainian teacher living in Surrey has said she and her family want to go back to their home country when it’s safe. Hanna started a school for Ukrainian children in Guildford to teach them their native language and history.
Before Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, Hanna had a happy life there with her husband and two children. But now her husband is fighting in the war-torn country. He told Hanna to leave so she could save her children’s lives.
Hanna has been teaching at the school since arriving in the UK. She said it was difficult for them when they first came, but they made friends and settled well.
**Teaching Children About Their Heritage**
The Ukrainian school helps local children prepare to go back home by learning their language and history. Hanna started the school so her own children could learn about their heritage while living in a new country.
Hanna’s 16-year-old son Yelisei said they thought they’d only be in the UK for two weeks, but the conflict between Russia and Ukraine has taken longer to resolve than expected. He said the school helped them build a big community of friends who supported them.
Yelisei added that being in the UK was different from living in Ukraine. He had to become independent and support his family, which changed him a lot.
**Waiting for Peace**
Hanna’s husband is still fighting in Ukraine. Yelisei said he wants to return home when it’s safe so he can make a difference in his country. The whole family hopes to go back home soon.