We have celebrated the contributions that Black people have made to our culture and history as part of Black History Month this October. We explored stories that are often overlooked in our national narrative and introduced students to significant Black cultural figures, both past and present.
In class, pupils engaged in a variety of activities: they examined the influence of artists such as Lubaina Himid and Tam Joseph, learned about abolition pioneers like Harriet Tubman and Olaudah Equiano, and discovered the political contributions of figures like Floella Benjamin and Diane Abbott. They also explored the story of the Windrush generation. In Spanish lessons, pupils discussed Colombian jazz culture and its Creole roots, while in History, they studied the lives of Black Tudors. Even our Kindergarten pupils participated by practicing javelin throwing, inspired by the great Olympian Tessa Sanderson, to develop their hand-eye coordination.
During an assembly, Mr Wilson discussed the reasons why Black stories have not always been given the recognition they deserve, drawing comparisons between Florence Nightingale and Mary Seacole. It is vital that all of our pupils feel represented in school and that our curriculum reflects the rich diversity of their identities throughout the year.
The pupils also had the opportunity to sample Caribbean food prepared with enthusiasm by our kitchen team, which was a wonderful experience for everyone who chose to try it. Additionally, we have created a cultural display board showcasing art pieces that were created by Year 5.
