In the light of the COVID-19 crisis and with schools closed until further notice, we are launching a new “home school” competition for children and young people, to explore Black British History and multicultural Britain.
The competition, sponsored by The National Education Union (NEU), the largest education union in Europe, is part of the special launch of the 100 Great Black Britons campaign created by Patrick Vernon OBE to celebrate the continued legacy and achievements of Black people in Britain.
The competition is open to all age groups. Children and young people are asked to create a fun and unique project celebrating Black Britons and their legacy.
There is also a special teacher’s competition to develop resources that can be shared as part of a permanent online teaching resource celebrating Black history.
“The current crisis has highlighted the centrality of Black people in Britain, to the NHS and care work, transport systems, food supplies, utilities, research, education and so much more. The NEU supports this competition to celebrate what we have always known that Britain’s history is irrefutably rooted in Black and global history and that our members do a fantastic job in teaching this. It will be a fabulous opportunity to showcase some of their work and that of their pupils”. Kevin Courtney, NUE Joint General Secretary
“Black history in Britain goes as far back as it’s possible to go. Children growing up in modern Britain should know their true history, and whether they are Black, brown or white, Black history is part our of national story. Their resources on the 100 Great Black Britons site can be used by families, parents, guardians and carers to help children understand themselves and their wider history. This is central to Black Cultural Archives’ purpose, so we’re very pleased to contribute to this great resource.” Arike Oke, Managing Director of Black Cultural Archives
“Black history is vital for every young persons’ development and understanding of their identity and the world around them. To become fully rounded people, it is important that all young people are given meaningful access to a full version of history.” Lavinya Stennett founder of Black Curriculum
Entries for the competition are now open onwww.100greatblackbritons.co.uk , entries close on the 31st of September 2020. The most creative and innovative projects will be featured on the website in October.
The website will become a permanent resource for teachers to supportBlack History in the National Curriculum. We are encouraging educators who want to share their knowledge and resources to upload content to the campaign’s official website:www.100greatblackbritons.co.uk
As we approach Windrush Day on the 22nd of June 2020, teachers and parents who are currently doing school at home can use these resources to help children and young people learn more about the role and impact of people of African descent in British History.
“Teaching about our history, equality and diversity to promote a fully inclusive atmosphere in schools should be embedded into daily life in schools. The goal is always to celebrate festivals and events such as black history month to highlight and embrace our community and not to make up for what is often forgotten and overlooked.” Niparun Nessa, Secondary Teacher and Equalities Campaigner
100 Great Black Britons book and game – launching Oct 2020
As part of the 100 Great Black Britons campaign a book co-written by Patrick Vernon OBE and Dr Angelina Osborne, will be publishing later this year along with a board game celebrating important Black British figures and their impact on British culture.