Black History Week: Standing Firm in Power and Pride
This week, our school community came together to celebrate Black History Week under the theme: Standing Firm in Power and Pride. Through assemblies, drama workshops and classroom learning, children explored the lives and legacies of inspirational Black British figures, reflecting on themes of identity, resilience, achievement and pride.
Assemblies took place across the school to launch the week, encouraging pupils to think deeply about the theme and the importance of Black history in shaping our society. Each year group then focused on a significant individual whose story connects with the theme in a meaningful way:
- EYFS – Trish Cooke Pride in our family, identity and celebrating our stories
- Year 1 – Lenny Henry Pride through voice and laughter
- Year 2 – Sam Watson Standing up and taking pride in what is fair
- Year 3 – Floella Benjamin Pride in heritage and the power of sharing your story
- Year 4 – Sam King Being resilient and having pride in your community
- Year 5 – Dame Maggie Aderin-Pocock Pride in achievement
- Year 6 – Paul Stephenson Power and pride in peaceful protest
In addition to classroom learning, pupils took part in drama workshops that brought history to life in engaging and imaginative ways:
- Years 1, 2 and 5 enjoyed a storytelling workshop that celebrated diversity and identity. Through a creative narrative, children were introduced to inspirational figures such as Andrew Watson, the first Black British footballer, and Dame Maggie Aderin-Pocock, a pioneering space scientist.
- Years 3 and 4 explored the achievements of Sam King MBE, a key figure in the celebration of the Windrush generation. Known as “Mr. Windrush”, Sam King arrived in Britain on the Empire Windrush after serving in the RAF. He went on to become the first Black mayor of Southwark, co-founded the Windrush Foundation, and helped establish the first Windrush Day in 1988. His legacy continues to inspire pride and community spirit.
We are incredibly proud of the thoughtful discussions and creative work produced by our pupils throughout the week. A BIG thank you to Miss Barnes for organising this enriching programme and ensuring that our celebration of Black History was both meaningful and memorable.
