Hackney headteacher Gregory Logan recently received a surprise visit from Principal Janet Obiri-Yeboah, who travelled from Ghana to present him with a Citation of Honour and a traditional royal kente Patakeli—a woven garment worn in northern Ghana. The honour was given on behalf of Deacons Academy Foundation School of Excellence in Accra, Ghana, in recognition of his mentoring, donations of school equipment, and the international links he helped establish between students in London and Ghana.
Principal Obiri-Yeboah, who trained as a teacher in the UK and worked as a librarian at City and Islington College, returned to Ghana ten years ago with a passion to share her knowledge and experience. She went on to open a primary school in the Paradise K-Boat area of Accra.
The connection between Deacons Academy and Hackney was made by Juliet Bremmer BCAe—a children’s publisher, retired senior deputy headteacher from Hackney, and long-time supporter of the school in Ghana. Juliet has served as Patron of the school for over four years, volunteering as an online teacher and fundraiser. Alongside young authors Romeo Bremmer, Sheldon Barrett, and Oneicia D’Angel Edwards, Juliet helped raise over £20,000 in funds, books, furniture, and school resources to refurbish and redecorate the Deacons Academy library.
It was Juliet who introduced Gregory Logan to Principal Janet, sparking a rich international exchange that led to the creation of the Smiles Across the Miles Pen Pal Programme. Year 5 pupils from both schools have already begun writing to each other, creating connections across continents.
The partnership has also led to the creation of a brand-new Library Resource Centre, which will be open to the entire local community in Accra this October. Gregory Logan helped supply imported educational materials and connected Deacons Academy with Claire Williams and her team at the charity Business2Schools, who provided significant donations and support.
Reflecting on the honour, Gregory Logan said:
“It is beautiful being able to support all children, and this international connection is excellent because it enriches our pupils’ experience. I have never received an award before, so to be recognised on this level is truly humbling.”
Principal Janet Obiri-Yeboah, who is a member of GNACOPS (Ghana National Council of Private Schools), shared that the council wholeheartedly supported the idea of honouring Gregory after hearing about his contributions:
“Without Gregory, the children wouldn’t be able to enjoy premium resources and furniture. Juliet and her authors raised funds to laminate the library floor and paint the walls, and Gregory provided much-needed resources and contacts that transformed our space.”
Supporter Coley added:
“Reading is such an important skill for children—boosting knowledge, vocabulary, imagination, and communication. Supporting a library project like this is a no-brainer. When I spoke to Gregory about Deacons Academy, he didn’t hesitate. The Citation he received is well deserved.”
The pupils of Deacons Academy are eagerly awaiting replies from their pen pals at Daubeney School in Hackney, excited to continue building this bridge of learning and friendship.
The Deacons Academy Library Resource Centre is set to officially open in October 2025.