Actualités

 
This month, our school is proudly celebrating Black History Month, under the 2025 theme: “Standing Firm in Power and Pride.” This theme honours the resilience, strength, and unwavering commitment to progress that defines the Black community across the globe. It celebrates the achievements of Black leaders, activists, and pioneers who have shaped history while looking towards a future of continued empowerment, unity, and growth.

Across all year groups, pupils are exploring inspiring stories and figures from Black history, encouraging reflection on courage, resilience, and the importance of standing up for equality. In MS and GS, younger children are enjoying age-appropriate books on Black identity and diversity, which spark discussion about respect, fairness, and celebrating differences. Stories such as All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold, Hair Love by Matthew A. Cherry, I Am Enough by Grace Byers, and Sulwe by Lupita Nyong’O help children to explore ideas of self-confidence, kindness, and inclusion in ways they can relate to.

In CP, pupils are reading Mae Among the Stars by Roda Ahmed, the inspiring story of Mae Jemison, the first African-American woman in space, and Sulwe by Lupita Nyong’O, exploring self-esteem and embracing one’s differences. Moving into CE1, pupils study the life of Rosa Parks and her pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement, reflecting on how one person’s courage can spark meaningful change.

For CE2, lessons focus on a wider range of influential Black figures throughout history, from pioneers in science, politics, and sport, to extraordinary trailblazers such as John Blanke, Matthew Henson, Mary Seacole, Arthur Wharton, Jesse Owens, Nelson Mandela, Katherine Johnson, Lonnie Johnson, Barack Obama, and Maggie Aderin-Pocock. Pupils explore the achievements of these individuals and the lasting impact they have had on society.

In CM1, pupils continue learning about notable Black figures with a particular focus on Ruby Bridges, whose bravery as a young child attending an all-white school became a landmark moment in the fight for civil rights. Discussions centre on her resilience and the importance of standing firm in the face of adversity. In CM2, pupils take a broader view, studying the significance of Black History Month and engaging with the novel The Boy at the Back of the Class. Through this story, they explore themes of racism, displacement, and the experiences of refugees, developing empathy and understanding of contemporary social issues.

This year’s theme, “Standing Firm in Power and Pride,” has provided a unifying message across the school. Pupils are encouraged to recognise the power of their own voices while learning from the achievements and struggles of others. By engaging with these stories, our school community celebrates the strength, pride, and ongoing contributions of the Black community, fostering a culture of respect, equality, and empowerment for all.

Best wishes, 
Mrs Weber