Black History Month 2025

Celebration evening event 

Parents were invited to attend an evening event of celebration with special guests, the Keynotes Gospel Choir, who performed alongside our students. The audience also enjoyed showcase performances from our GCSE music students. 
Our guest speaker was Toyin Afolabi, Youth Pastor at Saint Church Hackney.  

BHM Speaker - Ashley Hickson-Lovence

TUS invited an exciting speaker in as part of our BHM celebrations. Ashley Hickson-Lovence came to lead an assembly and two workshops on writing, the power of lyrics and his new novel ‘Wild East’. Ashley was born in Homerton and has lived in Hackney, and he was an excellent inspiring speaker. 

Mya McLean in 9CAM wrote a reflection after taking part in one of his workshops. She wrote:
Ashley was great! He spoke in the right tone and pace, and really engaged the whole class. It was cool to express how we grew up and how our lives have changed and express ourselves, and letting others know what makes us great. Ashley was good at explaining the use of words. I really liked how everyone shared or said something and felt comfortable to share — and not being shy or anything like that!

Ashley said you can learn something new and build your confidence. That’s what really stood out to me today. You can actually express who you are and yourself. His story was inspiring — he grew up from nothing to becoming who he is, which was really interesting. I never knew he was from East London, that was a shock but it showed the ability to write and express yourself can get you far. Overall, I enjoyed every single thing we shared as a class and now I know new things! I definitely will be reading his book!
 

BHM Poster Challenge
 

Students were challenged to present a poster of a chosen Black Leader who they felt left a Legacy and created Change. 
Some of the best of these are reproduced here; 

The Obamas, by Skyla in 9CPI

Katherine Johnson by Derrin in 9 DVP

 Ruby Bridges by Mariella in 9 CAM

Leitia Wright Film Screening 

Urswick Sixth Form students enjoyed a private film screening, Q&A session and workshop delivered by industry professionals including BAFTA award winner, Letitia Wright. This was an incredible opportunity for our students.