YOUNG people learned about New Scots living in their community to mark refugee week.

St Columba's High School held a series of talks, presentations and activities to mark the event.

This included a visit by Balal Wardak, now working for the Scottish Refugee Council, who left his home in Afghanistan to settle in Inverclyde.

His talk had a powerful impact on pupils and brought home to them how challenging it is for people seeking refuge in a foreign country.

Sixth year student Anna McClafferty said: "I thought it was inspirational how brave Balal was to leave his home and come here with his wife and three children."

Lewis Hearl, who is in S4, added: "Balal spoke about his family and showed us some videos about his country.

"He said he settled in quite well in Inverclyde. It was interesting to find out more about refugees."

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The pupils also linked up with members of the council's Refugee Integration team during the week to make 'Welcome to Inverclyde' cards to give to the team to pass on to the families.

Colette Sinclair and Paul Haggerty, who work for the team, say the support of the young people makes a big difference.

Colette said: "We work with people who have come from Afghanistan, Syria, Sudan and Ukraine.

"It is very rewarding but also very challenging especially with non-European refugees as the culture is very different.

"Language is also a challenge. Everyone is different, no family is the same. Some people need more support than others."

Paul says the team are like a 'one-stop' shop and help with all sorts of issue.

He said: "One of the main difficulties is understanding the benefit system."

Graham Currie, who teaches modern studies and history, said: "The main thing for us was to further develop pupils' empathy with people coming to the area.

"We wanted to open their eyes to the reality of the circumstances people have gone through to be part of their school and wider community, and to have better relationships with refugees within the school."