Continuing violence in Iraq has led one and half million Iraqis to seek refuge in Syria in the past few years, putting an enormous strain on public services. Basic education is free to all in Syria, and schools like Sayeda 5th School, in the area of Damascus known as Little Iraq, are struggling to cope. Many of the new arrivals from Iraq have psychological problems and have missed out on a lot of school. We take a look at life at Sayeda 5th School, through the eyes of the teaching staff, and get an insight into Syrian teaching methods as well as focusing on the particular issues related to the huge schools, but by working with children in the community centres they are able to play a part in educating the next generation of Iraqis.

Video Series: Syria: Refugee Lives
Release Date 2008