Students at Ormiston Bridge Academy, have taken part in a rich programme of events and activities to celebrate Black History Month (1-31 October), embracing opportunities to learn and reflect.
Throughout the month, students explored significant figures and themes in black history and culture across the curriculum. In lessons, they investigated the legacy of Bessie Coleman, the first black woman to earn a pilot’s licence and used teamwork, budgeting and design skills to build their own model airplanes. In science, students researched inspirational black scientists, producing detailed fact files and learning about the pivotal role of women in the space race through the story of Hidden Figures.
The academy’s creative curriculum also gave students the chance to express themselves through art and performance. Learners created vibrant artwork using symbolic colours to reflect heritage and identity, while GCSE Art students worked with designer Monique Isabella Pusey to produce their own printed Black History Month tote bags. Their final pieces were showcase in a dedicated display celebrating their individuality and talent.
Secondary students were treated to a moving spoken word performance by poet Natalie Wright, who shared pieces exploring British identity and her grandfather’s Windrush journey. Her visit sparked powerful conversations about history, identity and belonging, and showed students the power of poetry to amplify underrepresented voices.
Beyond the classroom, students took part in sports linked to the stories of inspirational Black athletes, enjoyed a Caribbean-themed lunch and embraces the month’s theme with curiosity, enthusiasm and respect.
Across the academy, Black History Month was marked not only as a moment of celebration but as a meaningful extension of Ormiston Bridge’s commitment to diversity, belonging and inclusive education.
Sophia Martin, Principal of Ormiston Bridge Academy, said: “We were proud to mark Black History Month with such a creative and wide-ranging programme of activities. Every pupil had the chance to learn something new, celebrate important stories and explore identity in positive and empowering ways. Our students embraced the opportunity with thoughtfulness, enthusiasm and respect, and we’re delighted to see them take pride in their learning”