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The History Department at RMS recently held a research competition to mark Black History Month 2025, with pupils from Cadogan House, the Senior School, and the Sixth Form participating across a range of categories.
The competition was a great opportunity to explore this year’s BHM theme: ‘Standing Firm in Power and Pride’. Pupils were invited to enter one or more competitions tailored to their year groups. Entries were varied, including artwork, memorial designs, commentaries, documentaries and research-based pieces of work. Here is a summary of the categories pupils could choose to enter, with some fantastic examples of entries received.
Cadogan House Competitions:
– “Pioneers of Pride” showcase: Research a Black leader, activist, or pioneer and produce a short clip (e.g., a monologue or news report) outlining their strength, pride, and contribution to history.
– “Our Community, Our Strength” Storybook competition: Create an illustrated storybook that celebrates the power and pride of the pupil’s community or family, focusing on resilience and unity.
– “Building a Better Future” Architectural challenge: Design a model or drawing of a building or monument representing empowerment, unity, and pride, accompanied by a short explanation.
– “Legacy of Lyrics” Poetry: Write a short poem reflecting on the contributions of Black people throughout history, focusing on resilience, strength, and empowerment.
A beautiful painting (left) from a pupil in Year 7 that represents having unashamed pride in who you are. An engaging video (right) created by a Year 5 pupil presenting insightful research about Burkinabé revolutionary Thomas Sankara in the form of a live news report.
Years 7-9 Competitions:
– “Unwavering Resilience” Art & photography competition: Produce visual art or a photograph representing “Standing Firm in Power and Pride,” along with an artist’s statement.
– “Sounds of Empowerment” Music & songwriting contest: Compose and perform an original song (max 2 minutes) or musical piece that celebrates Black culture and heritage.
– “Legacy & Leadership” essay competition: Write a persuasive essay (800-1,000 words) on a historical or contemporary Black figure who exemplifies “Standing Firm in Power and Pride”.
Years 10-13 Competitions:
– “Pride in My Roots” Poetry competition: Write a poem exploring personal or community pride and reflecting on how culture, experiences, and resilience have shaped identity.
– “Legacy & Leadership” essay competition: Write a persuasive essay (800-1,000 words) on a historical or contemporary Black figure who exemplifies “standing firm in power and pride,” analysing their contributions, challenges, and lasting legacy.
– “Architects of the Future” Creative writing challenge: Write a short story, one-act play, or script (1,000-1,500 words) imagining a future society built on unity and empowerment, potentially inspired by a Black leader.
– “The Power of Progress” Documentary film challenge: Research and produce a short documentary film (5-7 minutes), individually or in groups, about a Black historical figure, event, or movement in the UK, highlighting its contribution to progress.
A creative piece (left) created by a Year 6 pupil inspired by the front cover of the book ‘Friday I’m in Love’ by Camryn Garret. A wonderful drawn artwork (right) depicting Bessie Coleman, the first African American to own a pilot’s license.
History teacher, Mrs Eccles, said that the department was “thrilled with the range of entries” received, which showcased the “interest and skill of the pupils from across the school.”
Well done to everyone who entered the competition and engaged with the theme.