Schools still have plenty of time to get involved in the UK’s first Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History Month, which runs until the end of June. The event has been supported by the Department for Children, Schools and Families and involves hundreds of activities.
The initiative was launched following the success of Black History Month and aims to explain the history of travelling communities, with a view to dispelling some of the common misconceptions surrounding these groups and celebrate “the richness that these communities bring to our everyday lives”.
Gypsies and Travellers have been part of British society for more than 500 years, and many fought in the Second World War.
In Newham, east London, children from Colegrave Primary and Ronald Openshaw Nursery this week toured the home of Lisa Smith, who is a Romany Gypsy.
Pupils were given the opportunity to listen to stories and histories from the families on her site and to look at old photographs and take part in a treasure trail.
Mrs Smith said: “I want the children and parents from the school to see the way we live in caravans so that they will understand us better.”
A dedicated website has been set up which gives information on local and national events and competitions.
www.grthm.co.uk.
