Educational innovation is taking place at Van Gogh Primary School in South London as they get into the vibrant pages of BLAM UK’s ‘Global Black Narratives for the Classroom: Africa, The Americas and The Caribbean.’ Led by Nadine Bernard, the UK’s youngest Black headteacher, Van Gogh is not just ordering these books – they’re creating a wave of excitement and cultural enrichment for both students and teachers alike!
“Black history as we have known it in many schools has been one month of narrow focused learning. BLAM has now created essential resources, which are the first of its kind, to support teachers with planning and implementation to cover a range of wonderful learning that will inspire and empower children, specifically those from the black community who have been routinely underserved by the British education system.
The national curriculum links, planning ideas, historical information and learning sheets provided in the book will provide teachers with a great base to develop their own knowledge and understanding so that they can provide Black History learning with the precedence it deserves throughout the school academic year.
Congratulations once again to all who have been part of developing this book. We look forward to edition 2!”
– Nadine Bernard, Youngest Black Headteacher in the UK, Van Gogh Primary School Headteacher and Founder of Aspiring Heads
As the pioneer school for this groundbreaking initiative, Van Gogh Primary is setting the stage for a nationwide movement. BLAM UK is overjoyed by this milestone, anticipating that more schools will eagerly join the revolution and embrace the power of diverse narratives in every corner of the classroom.
“BLAM UK is on a mission to make Global Black history impactful in the UK education system. With our sights set on reaching 20,000 schools, we’re determined to weave Black narratives into the fabric of education and promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. Join us on this incredible journey – let’s make history together!” – BLAM UK
Whilst Black history currently isn’t mandatory in primary schools due it not being covered in the national curriculum, this book seeks to shake things up. According to the Convention on the Rights of the Child (Articles 28 & 29), a child deserves an education that embraces cultural identities, preparing them for a society of ‘peace, tolerance & equality.’ A union made up of over 30,000 passionate teachers continue to rally for Black narratives in their classrooms, this is fueled by the desire to make education more dynamic and inclusive!
Additionally, a UK survey by Runnymede Trust unveils the desire for change, with 78% of teachers wanting training on migration, and 71% wanting to be trained on how to teach about the empire. The book ‘Global Black Narratives for the Classroom’ isn’t just a tool; it’s a revolution. Created to be an all year-round adventure of knowledge, creativity, and fun, it can aid teachers in navigating these vital topics.
The Global Black Narratives for the Classroom book is jam-packed with practical lesson plans, interactive worksheets, and engaging activities tailor-made for primary school teachers. BLAM UK, in partnership with Routledge, presents a series of captivating Global Black history narratives – from the vibrant culture of Black Britain to the hidden gems of Afro-Latinas and Afro-Colombians, and the rich untold narratives of Africa and the Caribbean. This is Global Black history that spans continents and enriches minds!
Don’t miss out on the chance to bring ‘Global Black Narratives for the Classroom: Africa, The Americas and The Caribbean’ into your school or personal collection. Order your copy today and be part of the movement reshaping how Black narratives are taught in schools: https://amzn.eu/d/5VudLgP
For all media inquiries, please contact our press lead: Bettina Ogbomoide – bettinaxblam@gmail.com
About BLAM UK: BLAM UK is an award-winning educational, advocacy and mental health not-for-profit. We work to champion Black British cultural capital and creativity, improve the mental health and wellbeing of peoples of African descent, provide a comprehensive and decolonised education system, and support social inclusion of the Black British community.
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