In celebration of October being Black History month, fifteen enthusiastic KS4 and KS5 students had the exciting opportunity to spend a few hours at Nower Hill High School. Where they explored the world of classical music and celebrated Black excellence.

The event was based on Dr. Kadiatu Kanneh-Mason's new book, 'Young, Black and Talented', which explores the challenges of facing racial injustice and discrimination while celebrating Black achievement. Whilst highlighting the importance of representation, resilience, and embracing one’s identity in overcoming barriers, it also focused on nurturing talent, family support, and inspiring young Black people to pursue their ambitions.

Our KS4 & KS5 Students!

The day began with a warm welcome from Dr. Kanneh-Mason, accompanied by her son Sheku Kanneh-Mason, who treated the audience to a live performance, captivating everyone with his extraordinary cello. The Kanneh-Mason family consists of seven siblings who are accomplished, talented musicians in piano, cello and violin. They were raised by parents Stuart Mason, a business executive and Dr Kadiatu Kanneh, a former university lecturer.

Dr Kadiatu Kanneh-Mason, Award-winning author and speaker.

Sheku Kanneh-Mason, Classical Musician.

Dr. Kanneh-Mason then highlighted key themes from her book, touching on issues such as identity, family, determination, and resilience, offering powerful insights and practical advice for students navigating challenges in their own lives. Following the overview of her book, the floor was opened for questions.

The discussion sparked meaningful dialogue about representation, perseverance, and pursuing one’s passions, with one of our Year 12 students, Suhala, asking a thoughtful question about any backlash Dr. Kanneh-Mason has faced and how she dealt with it. The day concluded with students reflecting on the key takeaway: visibility and representation matter.

Ms Gilbertson, our Humanities teacher, also presented two assemblies to our KS3-KS5 Students, on the topic of Black History Month. As the students entered, a photograph of a sign stating "No Irish, No Blacks, No Dogs" was presented without any context - students were left to interpret the meaning behind this sign. 

This photograph stemmed from post-war 1950s where it was commonplace to advertise discriminatory signs.  Students were encouraged to think about the context behind the sign, and how it may make them feel had it been displayed in this current day and age. 

Ms Gilbertson then introduced the relevance to the topic of Black History Month, highlighting to our students the significance of why it is held annually. By celebrating Black History Month, we educate about the often-neglected achievements of Black people, combat racism, and encourage a more comprehensive understanding of history and culture.

Black excellence and success were presented through slides of a range of successful and iconic Black individuals in different fields, inspiring our students into understanding that anything truly is possible for them! An array of quotes from our Black Teaching and Support Staff were also displayed,  showing what they believe Leadership to be. 

As stated by Mrs Campbell, our Teacher of Food and Nutrition: 

"Lead the way you want to be led, with clarity, care and courage, and you'll inspire the same in others." 

Witnessing Black excellence in the arts, both on stage and through personal stories, shows our students what’s possible when talent, determination, and support come together, leaving them inspired to pursue their own ambitions with confidence.

Thank you to Ms Gilbertson for organising this important presentation, and taking our students to the event at Nower Hill High School. As she stated, "Black history is all of our history". Not only is it important to remember the achievements of Black people, but it’s important to recognise the things that make us both unique and alike and to celebrate diversity here at Canons High School!