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November 5, 2024Pupils from St James’ Primary School in Paisley have been learning how to respect and appreciate the diversity different cultures bring to the local community.
During October, the pupils enthusiastically took part in a series of activities and events based on this year’s Black History Month theme – ‘Reclaiming Narratives’.
This engaged pupils, staff, and the wider community in a meaningful dialogue about inclusion, the way a diversity of cultures is good for local communities and how to change the narrative of how different cultures are perceived.
Pupils themselves have told how it is wrong to discriminate against someone because of the colour of their skin or their religion and say they are now more respectful of each other.
Mrs Layna McGhee, Acting Depute Headteacher at St James’ – who spearheaded the initiative and participates in Education Scotland’s award-winning Building Racial Literacy programme – said:
“The ethos of St James’ Primary School is deeply rooted in the values of inclusion and diversity.
We are dedicated to creating a school environment where every child feels valued and respected, where their heritage is acknowledged and where they are empowered to become change-makers.
Our pupils are at the heart of this mission, and we are excited to see how they will continue to lead the way in reclaiming narratives and shaping a brighter, more inclusive future for everyone.”
Activities at St James’ during Black History Month included representatives of the local Black community speaking to school-wide assemblies and pupils using storytelling, poetry, music and dance and visual arts to learn about key figures from Black history.
Pupils also took part in a Black History Month-themed playground scavenging hunt and attended a Lunchtime Film Club watching thought-provoking films that sparked discussions about identity, culture, and social justice.
Black History Month at St James’ School culminated in a showcase event for parents and the wider community with pupils demonstrating to their audience what they have learned about African and Caribbean culture through performances, presentations and displays.
After the Black History Month activities at St James’, pupils took part in a focus group and their comments included:
“People being discriminated against because of the colour of their skin is not right.”
“There is more appreciation of what Black people have contributed to the world.”
“People are now even more respectful of each other.”
Regine Bews, Volunteer Projects Co-ordinator at the School of African Cultures, in Renfrewshire said: “St James’ activities during Black History Month were inclusive, interactive and educational. It’s very important to have activities like this in schools as it helps dismantle racism and inequality.”
Mrs McGhee added: “The work we have done in the school to encourage acceptance and to embrace different cultures will continue.
We are holding Parent Focus Groups to continue conversations about race, history, and inclusivity in St James’ Primary School, with our aim being that this will lead to significant policy development.
In addition, our teaching staff are committed to embedding Black history into the fabric of our year-round curriculum and will be supported to do this through a variety of professional development activities.
We have also formed a pupil-led Anti-Racism Club that aims to empower pupils to be active allies, foster inclusivity and promote a culture of respect and equality throughout our school community and beyond.”
