This week it is ‘Black History and Cultural Diversity Week‘ across the Pegasus Academy Trust. This year, the theme for Black History Month is standing firm in power and pride. The focus is on honouring generations of resilience, cultural strength and identity. At the Lower and Upper Schools, we began the week by learning about 3 important figures from history. We heard about John Blanke who was a trumpet player of African descent who played in the courts of Henry VII and VIII. Next we heard about Mary Prince who is was born in the colony of Bermuda to an enslaved family of African descent. She was the first black woman to publish an autobiography which described her experience as a slave. Finally, we heard the story of Walter Tull who was famous for being both a professional footballer and a British Army Officer during World War I. He was one of the first black professional footballers in Britain and, despite facing racial barriers, became one of the first black men to be commissioned as an officer in the British Army, leading white soldiers into battle. The children were able to recall lots of facts that they had learnt about these important figures.
Special thanks to Ms Prideaux and Mrs Corbett, who organsied such an enlightening and creative week for us at Cypress!
Black History and Diversity Week in Class
This week the children at the Lower School have been exploring texts that are culturally diverse. In Reception, the children have been looking at the book ‘My Hair‘ by Hannah Lee. The book tells the story of a young girl who is excited about her birthday as it means a trip to the hairdressers and she can choose any style she wants. After looking at all the designs, she decides she like her own natural afro hair the best. The children have really enjoyed learning about different hairstyles this week. They especially enjoyed finding out about dreadlocks. Year 1 have been looking at the book ‘Julian is a Mermaid‘ by Jessica Love which is a story about being seen for who we are by someone who loves us. The children enjoyed finding out about Julian’s love of dressing up and discussed how it makes them feel when they find someone who like the same things as them. In Year 2, they have made links to their thematic learning about the Tudors by finding out more about the trumpet player John Blanke.Across the school, our pupils have been exploring a wonderful range of topics celebrating history, culture, and the achievements of remarkable individuals.
In Year 6, the children have been learning about Carnival and the inspiring story of Claudia Jones, the founder of the Notting Hill Carnival and a passionate activist for equality. They have also studied the suffragettes and the fight for women’s rights, learning about influential figures such as Ida B. Wells and Sojourner Truth.In Year 5, pupils have been investigating political protest, including the Bristol Bus Boycott, exploring how ordinary people can make extraordinary changes through courage and community action. Year 4 have linked their Roman studies to research on Septimius Severus, a powerful emperor of African descent whose story has sparked fascinating discussions about diversity in ancient history. Meanwhile, in Year 3, children have discovered the lives of notable Black Victorians such as Pablo Fanque, a talented equestrian and businessman; Arnold Sheppard, a professional boxer; Olga Brown, an award-winning artist; Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, the celebrated composer; and Arthur Wharton, the first Black professional footballer.
Each year group’s learning has opened up lively discussions about equality, representation, and the many inspiring contributions Black people have made throughout history, past and present. Next week at the Upper School classes will present their reasearch and creative projects to the rest of the school and share the knowledge they have gained this week.
Show Racism the Red Card
Today everyone has come to school dressed in their finest red clothing to raise money for the charity ‘Show Racism the Red Card’. Thank to all our children and families who made a donation of £1 or more towards this worthy cause.
Cypress Superstars
It has been a wonderfully busy and creative week in school. Mac in Beech Class came into the office to proudly share his colourful posters all about Carnival, filled with fascinating facts and vibrant designs. Well done, Mac. Ayaana, Gideon and Dora in Beech delivered their passionate suffragette speeches they had written this week with such conviction and flair that I am quite sure I would have joined their campaign for the vote myself. Great speech writing! Freddie and Louis in Willow Class have been inspired by the Russian constructivist Alexander Rodchenko, known for his bold use of colour, striking geometric shapes and innovative photographic style. Their work captured his spirit of experimentation beautifully. In Oak Class, Year 6 pupils Cayla, Emilia, Bea, Tolibat, Ilyas and Sophie have been mastering some very tricky sewing techniques with Ms Gould, including split stitch, running stitch, backstitch and cross stitch. Their perseverance and precision was been most impressive. In Mrs Simadree’s maths group, Marley, Mateus, Yakira, Alanna and Alan have been making fantastic progress with addition including exchanges. Their growing confidence is clear to see and we are all very proud of their hard work. At lunchtime, I was treated to a lively ribbon dance performed by Stella, Milana and Lyra. They had great timing, rhythm and bags of enthusiasm. It was very impressive! Well done, girls!
Year 6 Secondary applications
A reminder to all parents and carers that the deadline for applying for secondary school places is 31st October Please ensure that your application is submitted on time to give your child the best chance of securing a place at your preferred school. If you need any guidance or support with the process. There will be a Secondary Application Workshop at the Upper School on Wednesday 22nd at 2:15pm. Parents who would like to attend should head to our reception at the given time.
We wish all our children and families a restful weekend.
Ms Binks, Mrs Carpenter and the Cypress Team
