Culture Week

In the absence of a national week to celebrate different cultures, South Hampstead students decided to initiate their own.

Each year, our Diversity Champions organise an action-packed programme of events to celebrate the different heritages and identities within and beyond our school community. Each morning, global music welcomes everyone into school, and the atrium is adorned with flags from every country.

This year, students gave an assembly to introduce Culture Week, with a fabulous ‘catwalk’ to showcase outfits representing the diversity of our community. Staff and students donned a wonderfully colourful collection of garments from their countries, including a traditional sukman from Western Bulgaria; a Ghanian Ahabain; an asoebi, traditionally worn by Yorubas from Nigeria; kurtas and a lehenga from India; an embroidered Ukrainian vyshyvanka; a traditional Algerian fergani dress; and a zuria and bracelet worn by the Habesha in Eritrea.

Pupils could also join a badge-making workshop, creating pins to celebrate their identities. They took part in cultural dances, enjoyed a taste of different cuisines with a showcase of home-baked goods from a range of countries, and watched a screening of Yann Arthus-Bertrand’s film Humans. Year 9 Geographers and Philosophy & Religion students researched and shone a light on different cultures with an impressive culture fair in Waterlow Hall. During form time, Year 9 learnt about one of our trailblazing alumnae: film star, producer and studio boss, Devika Rani, who challenged societal norms. Coinciding with odd socks day, for UK anti-bullying week, pupils and staff across the whole school also wore mismatching socks to show how we celebrate people’s differences and champion a culture that is inclusive and welcoming.

A special mention to the Sixth Formers on the Diversity & Inclusion team for helping to plan the events: Leah, Alyana, Lucia, Ariadne, Laura, Avni and Neda.