Recently, a group of Year 8 history students from Highfields School embarked on a remarkable educational journey, joining an enlightening talk by esteemed journalist and author, Sathnam Sanghera. The event was graciously hosted by Wolverhampton Grammar School, providing our students with a unique opportunity to expand their historical knowledge.
The occasion centered around Sathnam's latest literary creation, a captivating children's book titled 'Stolen History.' In this thought-provoking work, Sathnam delves into the intricate tapestry of the British Empire, exposing its far-reaching and enduring impacts. Attendees had the privilege of gaining insight into the imperial origins of our multicultural society, our culinary heritage, and even the evolution of our language.
Sathnam engaged in a stimulating exploration of the multifaceted arguments surrounding the British Empire. He emphasized the necessity of understanding the Empire's complex role, from its deep involvement in the trans-Atlantic slave trade to its eventual role in its abolition. The discussion was nothing short of enlightening, offering students a chance to grapple with the nuances of history.
Inquisitive students seized the opportunity to inquire about Sathnam's illustrious career as a journalist, his upbringing in Wolverhampton, and his personal experiences with history lessons during his school years. These interactions provided invaluable insights and a window into the world of writing and journalism.
The highlight of the day came as students had their copies of 'Stolen History' personally signed by the author. Sathnam's generosity and willingness to engage with young minds left a lasting impression on all in attendance.
Miss Tappenden, Head of History at Highfields School, joined the event and shared her enthusiasm, stating, "This was a wonderful enrichment opportunity for our students. Sathnam's open dialogue about his experiences as a journalist and author, coupled with his personal connection to Wolverhampton and school history lessons, had students thoroughly engaged. They've taken away invaluable lessons to enhance their own classroom experiences at Highfields."
The Year 8 history curriculum at Highfields is thoughtfully designed to nurture students' understanding of the British Empire's growth. It encourages students to explore the broader implications and experiences of those within the Empire, as well as in Britain. A strong emphasis is placed on reading to build historical knowledge, complemented by our History Book Club, held after school every Thursday and open to students in Years 7-11.
