The program helps refugee children to understand and complete school work and enjoy creative and recreational activities.

``I like doing homework there and the teachers are polite,'' said Mohammad, one of the Bright Sparks kids.

Nicole, another refugee pupil, was even more appreciative of the program.

``Bright Sparks is the best place ever,'' she said.

The school's principal, Anthea Donaldson, said the children benefited from the program.

``I contacted Vinnies when I heard about their Bright Sparks program, which they were running in Catholic schools ... After a lot of work we got it going here,'' she said.

Clare Thompson of the St Vincent de Paul Society said she gained as much from the program as the children.

``What makes this program really special are the experiences you have,'' she said.

``I remember one girl who had just arrived in Australia. She had very limited English, but we were able to communicate through pictures, pointing and simple gestures.

``She had the brightest smile the entire time.''

Details, volunteer: 95680280.