Dear Parent/Carer
Cultural Diversity and Black History Month
We are proud of the broad and dynamic curriculum we offer at Leigh Academy Halley. As part of this curriculum, we have a programme of events throughout the academic year to celebrate important national and international events. For example, we will be offering a range of activities to celebrate International Day of Education, STEM Week, International Women’s Day, and Pride Month, as well as providing opportunities for our students to contribute to local charities and fully engage with our Cultural Capital activities.
As we enter October, I am excited to announce our celebration of Cultural Diversity and Black History Month. Throughout October our students will learn about historical figures and heroes who have made significant contributions in all subject areas, culminating in an assembly celebrating the often overlooked achievements of Black individuals both in the UK and globally.
This is a time for us to reflect on the values that define our academy community: respect, achievement, collaboration, integrity, and resilience. These values are integral not only to our academy culture but also to the personal development of our students.
Respect is fundamental as we acknowledge and honour the diverse backgrounds and histories of our students and their families. By fostering an atmosphere of inclusivity, we empower our students to appreciate different perspectives, encouraging them to embrace diversity as a strength.
During this month, we will focus on achievement by highlighting the remarkable contributions of Black individuals throughout history. Their stories of success and determination serve as powerful examples for all our students, inspiring them to pursue their own goals with passion and commitment.
Collaboration is key as we engage our students in various activities that promote understanding and unity. We will be organising events that encourage teamwork and dialogue, allowing students to learn from each other and build relationships across cultures. This collaborative spirit will enrich their educational experience and promote a sense of belonging within our academy community.
In our exploration of cultural diversity, integrity plays a crucial role. We strive to create an environment where honest conversations about our history and the challenges faced by marginalised communities can take place. By fostering integrity in our discussions, we help our students develop the critical thinking skills necessary to advocate for equity and justice in their own lives.
Finally, resilience is a theme we will celebrate throughout this month. The stories of perseverance within the Black community serve as powerful reminders of the strength and determination it takes to overcome adversity. By sharing these narratives, we aim to inspire our students to embrace challenges and develop the resilience they need to thrive in an ever-changing world.
Throughout the academic year, we will continue to celebrate cultural capital events that enrich our students’ learning experiences. These initiatives not only broaden their understanding of the world but also contribute to their personal growth, preparing them to become informed, compassionate, and engaged citizens.
We encourage you to engage in discussions with your children about these themes and the significance of cultural diversity in our society. Together, we can nurture a generation that values inclusivity and works collaboratively toward a brighter future.
Thank you for your ongoing support in fostering a diverse and vibrant academy community of which we are proud.
Yours faithfully
Mrs Kim Nguyen-Quan | Deputy Head of Turing School