This year's Black History Month celebrations at our school were filled with meaningful activities that brought together our diverse student body in recognition of history, culture, and community. Our events not only honoured the legacy of Black history but also celebrated the rich diversity that defines our school.

This years Black History Month theme was Reclaiming Narratives, and our events and activities made a conscious effort to encourage students to do the same: to be the writers of their own story and celebrate black excellence.

The festivities kicked off with an exciting Lunchtime Quiz session, where students put their knowledge to the test with a fun, yet educational, trivia competition. It was a lively way to challenge our understanding of Black history while enjoying the camaraderie of our peers.

We then ran our BHM Movie Night, where students gathered to watch Black Panther, starring an amazing cast of black actors and highlighting just how important it is to our students that they are represented in media. This message was echoed in our Reclaiming the Screen display boards, celebrating the achievements of black actors.

Our Poetry Writing Competition invited students to creatively express their thoughts and experiences. The powerful poems that emerged gave voice to the emotions and reflections stirred by Black History Month. The winning entries of the competition were then displayed on the school screens for all of our students to celebrate and empathise with.

The Scavenger Hunt added an element of excitement to the month’s celebrations, with participants searching for clues and answers related to influential Black figures, moments, and achievements. This interactive activity brought students together in a spirit of teamwork while deepening their appreciation for history.

The grand finale of the month was our third annual Fusion Showcase, an event that beautifully merged our Black History Month celebrations with Diwali festivities. The showcase not only featured performances and activities that celebrated Black and Hindu culture but also highlighted the vibrant array of traditions and backgrounds within our school. The Fusion Showcase was a true testament to our shared values of inclusivity, respect, and unity. Thanks to the hard work of our staff and senior prefect team in running the event, Fusion Showcase managed to raise over £900 to donate to Imkaan, a charity that addresses violence against Black and minoritised women and girls.

Together, these events not only celebrated Black History Month but also embraced the wide array of backgrounds that make our school community unique. By highlighting diverse cultures and histories, we deepened our understanding of one another and created a stronger, more inclusive environment for all.

Thank you to everyone who participated in and contributed to making this year’s celebrations a success. We look forward to continuing this tradition of cultural appreciation in the future!