BHM celebrations packed with a rich programme of creative activities

During Black History Month, our students celebrated the richness and variety of Black heritage through a packed programme of creative activities.

Year 7 and 8 students explored African visual cultures and the Somali poetic tradition in special sessions with creatives from Numbi Arts. Students engaged in a poetry, print or creative writing workshop and produced absolutely beautiful work. Our historic mulberry tree was clearly an inspiration! Year 7 and 8 hugely enjoyed their workshops with the Mary Seacole Trust, exploring how Mary overcame racism and injustice to become an entrepreneur and medic “whose achievements laid the groundwork for all of us to be leaders in the future”. The fascinating sessions were led by the inspirational Trevor Sterling, Chair of the Mary Seacole Trust, award-winning lawyer and a staunch advocate for racial and social equality.

Throughout October, we showcased a series of acclaimed films in honour of BHM. One highlight was the screening of Black Panther in the Mulberry & Bigland Green Centre on the big screen. Another was the screening of A Wrinkle in Time. Students loved Ava DuVernay’s film re-imagining of the novel, which includes a multi-ethnic cast.

We were thrilled to welcome back our great friend David Neita, barrister, poet and playwright, for a special performance of ‘Uplift’ for all Year 9 students. David’s absorbing play illuminates the significant contributions of the Windrush Generation to Britain and the scandal around their wrongful treatment. Students especially loved the special discussion event afterwards with David and student leaders Emma, Olivia, Khadija, Sumayyah and Rinnad. Each shared their reflections in a wide-ranging and powerful discussion which explored racism and resistance, colourism and the impact of racist beauty norms.