This October, our Prep Boys are celebrating Black History Month by honouring the achievements of Black individuals across various fields.
Each day during tutor time, the boys learn about and explore Black History through short films featuring both historical and contemporary Black figures. With a focus on oracy, they work in pairs or groups to discuss what they have learned, reflecting on how these lessons can help them become better individuals and improve their lives. They also explore connections between the films and their own experiences, consider how they can use their newfound knowledge to positively impact the world, and imagine how different the world might be if these individuals’ actions had not occurred.
This week, coinciding with Poetry Week, boys learned about the poet and campaigner Benjamin Zephaniah, among others. Zephaniah is renowned for writing poetry about racism, poverty and social injustice and for his efforts to improve literacy by making poetry accessible to all.
Mrs Dale emphasised the importance of highlighting lesser-known historical figures, explaining, “It is important that we highlight figures in history who haven’t had the limelight or who boys don’t know. When I shared this year’s list with my form group, one boy knew one person on the list. Which is the case in point. Black History Month is a month when we can focus on recognising black people and their contribution to world history.”
Throughout the month, our Global Citizen Group will delve deeper into many of the Black individuals studied and their legacies. Boys will also enjoy House assemblies on Black History Month.
As in previous years, we hope that Black History Month will spark meaningful conversations and encourage the boys to explore, share, and celebrate the impact of Black heritage and culture, and the values of diversity and inclusivity. These are valued lessons and conversations, which, while they come to the fore this month, continue across the curriculum throughout the year.
