Ormiston Bridge Academy marks Black History Month with powerful creative learning

This October, we proudly celebrated Black History Month with a rich and creative programme of events and activities that gave our students the chance to learn, reflect and express themselves.

Throughout the month, our students explored significant figures and themes in Black history and culture across the curriculum. In lessons, they learned about 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, creating detailed fact files and discovering the pivotal role of women in the space race through the story of Hidden Figures.

Our creative curriculum provided further opportunities for expression through art and performance. Students produced vibrant artwork using symbolic colours to reflect heritage and identity, while our GCSE Art students worked with designer Monique Isabella Pusey to create their own printed Black History Month tote bags. Their finished designs were proudly displayed in a dedicated exhibition celebrating individuality and talent.

A highlight of the month was a powerful spoken word performance by poet Natalie Wright, who shared pieces exploring British identity and her grandfather’s Windrush journey. Her visit inspired meaningful conversations about history, identity and belonging, and demonstrated the power of poetry to amplify underrepresented voices.

Beyond the classroom, students took part in sports inspired by the stories of trailblazing Black athletes, enjoyed a Caribbean-themed lunch and embraced the month’s theme with curiosity, enthusiasm and respect.

At Ormiston Bridge Academy, Black History Month was not only a time for celebration but also a reflection of our ongoing commitment to diversity, belonging and inclusive education.

“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.” – Our Principal, Sophia Martin