Jon Drury

In April 2017, a small group of 6 pupils from Sevenoaks School travelled to Orion, our first trip there after several successful previous trips to Kitezh.  The welcome was remarkably warm, as always, and our pupils relished the opportunity to meet the children and adults, and to integrate into village life.  One highlight was the fact that we were there during Russian Easter, and so were able to get some insight into the role that faith plays in Russia today.  We also had a campfire with songs, undertook a volunteer project renovating benches and chopping down dangerous trees, and did arts and crafts.  And we spoke lots of Russian.  We also organised a drama workshop for the children.  As ever, it was an immersive and hugely rewarding experience, and we look forward to visiting again at some point, although in April 2018 we will take the opportunity to renew friendships in Kitezh.