Celebrating Black History Month 2021

Dan, Year 12, and the Equality Ambassadors share how Chigwell pupils have spearheaded celebrations for Black History Month 2021.

"Chigwell School is proud to celebrate Black History Month this week. Through activities led by the student Equality Ambassadors, pupils have been learning the importance of Black cultures across the globe. The wide range of activities has included performances, thematic talks in assemblies, quizzes, chapel services, poetry, story telling and library collaborations - to name a few!

Read on to find out more about each of the initiatives.

Embellished Uniform Day

As part of our celebrations, we have organised an ‘embellished’ uniform day on Thursday. We are asking pupils to add to your school uniform items of clothing which link to different African and Caribbean flags. You could add a coloured jumper, different tie, coloured shirt, hats etc. but it is important to note that this is not a non-uniform day. You are also invited to wear your tradition national dress if you wish. Year groups in the Senior School have been allocated different flags and colours and we have chosen two charities to support.

• SARI - Stand Against Racism and Inequality. SARI provides free and confidential support for anyone who is a victim of hate crime. Whether that’s based on race, faith, disability, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, age, or sex. They also work to build greater understanding and respect for diversity and difference within the community.

• Show Racism the Red Card. An education charity which provides workshops, training sessions, multimedia packages and a whole host of other resources to tackle racism throughout society. Please bring in a minimum of £2.00 which will be collection on Thursday morning.

Afro Caribbean feast

We have collaborated with the School's brilliant chefs and catering team to create a special menu for Black History Month on Thursday 14th October, where pupils will have the opportunity to taste the flavours of Africa and the Caribbean.

Swallow Library

The Swallow Library has joined in with the celebrations, putting on display a range of books on Black History and Cultures to inspire pupils.

Reading in the Pre Prep and Junior Schools

Older pupils have taken the initiative to further explore Black culture and values through literature portraying Black History Month, sharing these with the younger years through story-telling sessions.

Inspiring role models

Pupils have been making posters for all departments showing inspirational black people linked to the subjects.

Who inspires you?

We are asking our School community (both pupils and staff) to share with us someone from the black community who inspires them. They could be famous, a relative or a friend. Please click on the link below and share your inspirational person with us. We look forward to sharing the results after half term.

Who inspires you? Let us know here.

Dan and the Equality Ambassadors