On St Valentine’s Day, the Year 11 English as an Additional Language (EAL) class celebrated by learning about the origins of this special day.
The legend tells us that Valentine was a priest who converted to Christianity when it was a new religion 2000 years ago. He so enraged the Roman Emperor, Claudius II, who wanted everyone to worship Roman gods, that when Valentine refused to comply he was thrown into jail and then beheaded. Whilst he was awaiting execution, he was visited by the jailer’s daughter who brought him gifts and kind messages from the local children. Valentine thanked her by sending her a letter, which he signed ‘From Your Valentine’.
The students made their own Valentine cards for their loved ones, including members of their families, in the spirit of the first Valentine’s day. They then taught each other how to say and write I Love You in English, Russian, Cantonese, Mandarin, Nepalese and German; such is the variety of nationalities in this class. They also shared how St Valentine’s day is celebrated in their cultures.
