Last month, Titan Partnership had the privilege of visiting Aston Manor Academy for their first Curriculum Enrichment Day of the academic year, which focused on diversity, Black history, and community. The energy and enthusiasm from students and staff were contagious as they engaged in a wide range of fun, educational, and thought-provoking activities that linked these important topics to their everyday learning. The day had been carefully prepared, with students attending assemblies in the days leading up to it to get them excited and ready for a deeper exploration of the day’s themes.
Humanities and Modern Foreign Languages
The Humanities and MFL departments provided an enriching exploration of Black history, starting with a quiz that tested students’ knowledge of significant Black figures and their impactful careers. This led to powerful discussions on essential topics like racism, democratic rights, equality, protest, and the perception of women throughout history. Students also watched the film Harriet, a moving depiction of Harriet Tubman’s courageous efforts in the fight for freedom, sparking reflection on perseverance and bravery in the face of oppression.
English and Art
English and Art classes took a creative approach to exploring the contributions of different cultures to literature, especially British culture. Students analysed the language used in literary works and even used artificial intelligence to write their own poems, blending tradition with innovation. They also learned about the Gee’s Bend quilters—groups of African American women who created beautiful quilts from old clothes, often their husbands’ garments. Students then had the chance to create their own quilt designs, demonstrating how collective effort can produce something truly unique and meaningful.
Science
In Science, the contributions of Black women to the field were highlighted, with students creating detailed fact files on six trailblazing Black female scientists. This activity not only provided a look into the often-overlooked achievements of these women but also encouraged students to consider their own futures in scientific fields. By recognising these role models, students were inspired to think about what scientific careers they might want to pursue, opening their eyes to the many possibilities available to them.
Physical Education, Design & Technology, and Music
PE, Design & Technology, and Music classes gave students the opportunity to explore Black role models; in PE, the students referenced key sporting events like Birmingham’s Commonwealth Games. Working in groups, students were given the task of creating warm-up routines inspired by prominent Black athletes from different sports disciplines, blending physical fitness with creativity. They also enjoyed a hands-on cooking experience, preparing a variety of traditional foods, and even participated in cultural African drumming sessions, learning about the rhythms and sounds of African heritage.
Maths and IT
The Maths and IT departments delivered an interactive session, where students took part in a relay race that challenged them to solve math problems related to prominent Black figures. They also learned about statistical data linked to Black history, reinforcing how numbers can tell the stories of social progress. Additionally, students watched the inspiring film Hidden Figures, which tells the story of the brilliant Black women who played crucial roles in NASA’s early space missions—yet another powerful reminder of how history is shaped by diverse voices.
A Day of Learning, Reflection, and Celebration
Aston Manor Academy’s Curriculum Enrichment Day was a truly inspiring event that not only celebrated Black history and diversity but also showed how these themes can be seamlessly integrated across the curriculum. From science and literature to sports and the arts, students were given the chance to reflect on the significant contributions of Black individuals throughout history while also thinking critically about their own roles in creating a more inclusive and equitable future.
This day was a testament to the power of education to not only teach facts and figures but to inspire understanding, empathy, and action. We look forward to attending future enrichment days at Aston Manor Academy.
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