Black History Month at Habs: a month of reflection, learning and celebration

We were delighted to celebrate Black History Month with a vibrant and varied programme of events that encouraged our community to reflect, learn and celebrate together.

The month began with a reading challenge launched by the library, inviting students to explore books by Black authors and stories that highlight Black experiences and voices. This initiative inspired pupils across all year groups to discover new perspectives and deepen their understanding through literature.

Staff took part in a ‘It’s Not Micro: Microaggressions’ workshop. The session provided an opportunity for open discussion and reflection on how subtle forms of bias can impact others, reinforcing our shared commitment to fostering a culture of respect and inclusion at Habs.

We were delighted to welcome Usifu Jalloh, a charismatic storyteller from Sierra Leone, who led an energetic and engaging storytelling workshop. Through his captivating tales, lively songs and rhythmic dances, the girls were taken on a journey to West Africa, exploring its rich culture and traditions. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed joining in with the singing and actions, helping to deepen their understanding and appreciation of different cultures and voices.

Later in the month, members of the Habs community attended the African Caribbean Education Network (ACEN) Conference, where students and staff engaged in thoughtful conversations around equity, identity and representation. The discussions inspired participants to think deeply about the importance of diversity and inclusion in education and beyond.

The month concluded with a writing competition that encouraged students to reflect on the themes of Black history, resilience and community. Entries included poetry, essays and stories that captured both personal insight and collective pride, showcasing the thoughtfulness and creativity of our students.

Black History Month at Habs was a powerful celebration of culture and community, reminding us all of the importance of learning from the past while continuing to build an inclusive and equitable future together.