BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Every year, Black History Month gives us a chance to celebrate the stories, struggles, and successes of Black people all around the world. This year the theme is “Standing Firm in Power and Pride.” But what does that really mean, for the children of Anson?

This month we will be encouraging the children to stand firm and stay strong, even when things are difficult. The message is that power is not just about being big or loud - it’s about having the strength to make good choices, to stand up for what is right, and to use our talents to help others. We will also talk the children about pride - pride in knowing who they are, where they come from, and feeling confident in that identity. Together, these concepts remind us that each of us has something valuable to offer the world.

When we look at Black History, we see many examples of people who stood firm in power and pride. Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on a bus because she knew it was unfair to be treated differently because of skin colour. Martin Luther King Jr. spoke with courage about his dream of equality. Mary Seacole cared for sick and injured soldiers when others told her she could not. They all found their voices and used them to make the world better. There are hundreds of equally inspiring examples of activism through power and pride.

But being an activist doesn’t always mean standing on a big stage or leading a protest. For young people, activism can start with small, everyday actions. It can be as simple as speaking kindly to someone who feels left out, reading books that share different voices and experiences, or standing up if you see someone being treated unfairly. Our voices have power, and when we use it for good, we are an activist too.

Sometimes it can feel scary to speak out. It is common for all humans to  worry about what other people will think or whether anyone will listen. That’s where standing firm comes in. This month it means reaffirming our values as a school of fairness, kindness and respect. We hold these values close to our hearts no matter what.

It also means being proud of our identity, our culture, and our history. We want all children to be able to say “This is who I am, and I belong.”

In our assemblies we will share the message that our voice is like learning to play an instrument. At first, it might be quiet or shaky, but the more you do it, the stronger and clearer it becomes. We will encourage children to ask questions, share ideas in class, write stories or poems, draw pictures that show how they feel. We will also introduce them to special guests who are using their voice for good in our community.

Our children have so much to give. They are creative, full of energy, and ready to imagine a better world. So this Black History Month, their voice matters. We will it with pride, use it with kindness, and use it to stand firm for what is right.

They are never too young to be an activist for good.

If you would like to share your story of ‘standing firm in power and pride’ please reach out to Miss Callaghan using parents@anson.brent.sch.uk

 

LAMPARDS SALE BOARDS

Friends of Anson is delighted that Lampards Estate Agent is sponsoring our Winter Fair this year.

To advertise the fair, Lampards will put up their ‘sale boards’ around the local area with the date of the fair - 12th December. We are looking for volunteers to have a board outside their home. 

The boards are a standard size (81 x 61 cm) and would be up for 5 weeks - from a month before the fair until a week after. They are put up and taken down by the estate agent - you don’t have to be at home.

It’s a great way to advertise and support the fair. Please email Nandini at friendsofanson@gmail.com with your name and address if you can host a board - we want as many as possible. For more details please speak to Mr Pile in the playground.

 

LEGO FUNDRAISING

Friends of Anson are working with FabBricks in an exciting fundraiser.

From Monday, families can order personalised Lego brick keyring for £3.25.

Whether they are attached to bags, coats, keys or book-bags they are a wonderful personalised gift for children or the extended family.

£1 from every purchase goes towards Friends of Anson. So, look out for the paper form and School Gateway link next week.

 

FREAKY FRIDAY

The first Friends of Anson event of the year is the Freaky Friday Disco.

For pupils in EYFS and Year 1&2 the disco will run from 3:30pm to 4:30pm. Pupils with tickets will stay at school at the end of the day and parents will collect them from the front entrance at 4:30pm.

The Key Stage Two disco will begin from 5:00pm so children will need to go home after school.

Tickets are available now on the School Gateway app.