Stephen Lawrence week teaches about all cultures
A primary school in Bradford, which has previously been commended for its work on promoting anti-racism, held a number of special activities throughout last week as part of its annual Stephen Lawrence Week.
Pupils at Horton Grange Primary worked with local artists to create artwork and canvases, exploring different ethnicities and religions, with the aim of learning about other cultures.
Culminating in a unique exhibition for parents, children and the community this week, all the work completed will be on show at the school.
Horton Grange was awarded its Stephen Lawrence Standard Mark previously – an award given to schools that achieve cultural tolerance and respect.
Niela Ahmed, equalities co-ordinator at the school, initially introduced the project in 2012 and has since seen pupils take part in a range of activities looking at different cultural issues around the world.
Explaining why the pupils celebrate the week every year, Mrs Ahmed said: “It’s really important that the whole school gets involved in initiatives such as this because we are asking children to develop the skills of mutual respect, understanding and tolerance of all people from different ethnicities, backgrounds and cultures.
“Stephen Lawrence week allows the school to celebrate differences, raise awareness of the issues of racism and to promote the ethos of equality, cohesion and diversity.
“It is key for us that children understand the importance of treating everyone with respect no matter what the colour of their skin is.
“By learning about these issues in society the pupils know that they are, and feel safe, in school.”
Last year, pupils took part in fair trade workshops and learnt about child labour in different countries around the world.
Events planned for this year focussed more on understanding other’s religions, cultures and backgrounds closer to home.
Some pupils painted famous figures who champion anti-racism, such as Martin Luther King Jr, and Malcolm X, whilst older children sewed messages of tolerance on canvases.
Mrs Ahmed added: “The children have loved the art based workshops that have focussed on anti-racism.
“They have enjoyed making stained glass windows, portraits of famous figures and the sewing projects, all of which will be showcased at an anti-racism art exhibition for parents and children at the end of the week.”
