Teaching Black British History in International Secondary School

This webinar, hosted by Jack Brown, Head of History at British School Muscat, will explore the importance of teaching Black British History within an international school context. It will begin by reflecting on the question: What does it mean to be British? Participants will consider the different connections students may have to Britain and how these experiences shape their understanding of Britishness and identity. The webinar will examine the historical significance of teaching Black British History and why this is particularly important for international students studying within British curricula around the world.

It will explore how a more representative and inclusive history curriculum can deepen students’ understanding of Britain’s past, present, and cultural diversity. A range of enquiry examples suitable for both primary and secondary schools will be shared, including studies of African Romans, the Black Tudors, Black Georgians, and the Black British Civil Rights Movement. Broader thematic enquiries will also be explored, such as Black migration to Britain and the influence of Black communities on British music and culture.

In addition, the webinar will highlight depth enquiries focused on individual Black lives from 1500 to the present day. Using key historical concepts such as causation and significance, these enquiries encourage students to engage critically with the past while exploring the complexity of relationships between Black and White people within British society. Rich and varied historical sources will be used to bring these stories to life and support meaningful classroom discussion.