Joint 6th Form Lecture for Politics pupils with Baroness Lawrence

Politics and French Sixth Form pupils were privileged to welcome our first speaker of the year, Baroness Doreen Lawrence, well known for her campaigning against racism following the horrific murder of her son Stephen in 1993. 

The Baroness spoke of her reactions to his death, of her feelings as new evidence comes to light, and in particular the challenges faced by the black communities in the UK that continue, which she hopes can be improved through ongoing education. As a high profile black woman, she admitted that she receives regular death threats, and is never entirely free of fear for speaking out.

The session was aimed at pupils studying Politics and History and proved to be an engaging hour as they discussed the political and social problems the family has encountered over 30 years. Through our good links with neighbouring state Schools, we invited The Robert Napier School in Gillingham, St Joseph Williamsonians Mathematical School, Rochester and Rochester Grammar School. Unfortunately, we were only joined by pupils from Robert Napier and after the call Mrs Rachel Barber described the session as “  Really inspirational! Such an honour”.

This was an inspirational and moving experience for our pupils, and we are hugely grateful to Baroness Lawrence for giving us time in such an honest talk.

Aims

This session was aimed at allowing 6th form pupils the chance to engage with the Baroness to understand about her campaign and the hurdles that needed to be overcome.