Black History Month 2026
Black British Arts & Culture in the 1960s: Caribbean Voices & Creative Heritage Research Bundle
Black History Month | Windrush Generation | Black British History | Caribbean Heritage | Research Skills | Citizenship | English | History | Drama | Art & Design
This comprehensive research bundle contains four engaging resources exploring the significant contributions of Caribbean communities in London, Nottingham, and Birmingham to British arts, culture, fashion, music, and social history during the 1960s. Perfect for Black History Month, Windrush studies, diversity education, and cross-curricular learning, these resources provide authentic voices, primary source material, and creative learning opportunities for students aged 11–18.
The bundle supports teachers in delivering an inclusive curriculum while helping students develop critical research, comprehension, discussion, and creative writing skills. It highlights the positive impact of Black British creatives on modern Britain and encourages exploration of themes including identity, migration, belonging, community, fashion, music, mental health, and cultural heritage.
Included Resources
1. The Swinging Sixties: A Poetic Journey
A lively and engaging poem by Vida Harris celebrating Caribbean life in Nottingham during the 1960s. Combining historical facts with creative storytelling, this resource demonstrates how poetry can be used to explore social history and personal experiences.
Suitable for: Ages 11–16
Subjects:
English
Poetry
Citizenship
Drama
Social History
Research Skills
Essay Writing
Includes:
2-page resource
Word and PDF formats
Learning Benefits:
Develops historical understanding through creative writing
Encourages cultural awareness and empathy
Supports literacy and analytical skills
Explores migration and community experiences
2. Fred Peters: A Musical Journey
A fascinating first-hand account by reggae musician Fred Peters, sharing memories of growing up in Brixton, London, during the 1960s. Students explore how music, family life, fashion, and youth culture shaped Black British identity and contributed to Britain's cultural landscape.
Suitable for: Ages 11–18
Subjects:
English
History
Citizenship
Creative Writing
Drama
Includes:
4 archive photographs
Primary source research material
Learning Benefits:
Introduces authentic oral history
Explores Black British cultural identity
Supports historical enquiry and discussion
Enhances understanding of Britain's multicultural heritage
3. Style in My DNA (Research E-Book)
Written by Lorna Holder, this richly illustrated 208-page research book documents over 70 years of Caribbean influence on British fashion and style. Covering London, Birmingham, and Nottingham, it offers valuable insight into fashion history, identity, creativity, and the Caribbean migrant experience.
Suitable for: Ages 11–18
Subjects:
Modern History
Art & Design
Citizenship
Fashion & Textiles
Photography
Black Studies
Classroom Topics:
Diversity
Identity
Community
Fashion History
Cultural Heritage
Migration
Learning Benefits:
Supports independent research projects
Explores representation and identity
Encourages visual analysis and critical thinking
Provides valuable material for GCSE and A-Level coursework
4. Indigo Blue Room (Video Resource)
A powerful video adaptation from the stage play Living Under One Roof by Lorna Holder. Set in 1960s Birmingham, the drama follows Lattisha and Samson, a Trinidadian couple struggling to adjust to life in Britain. Through themes of migration, family relationships, work, identity, and mental health, students gain insight into the challenges faced by many Windrush-era migrants.
Suitable for: Ages 14–18
Subjects:
English
Drama
Social History
Learning Benefits:
Stimulates discussion and debate
Encourages empathy and critical thinking
Explores mental health and wellbeing
Examines migration, belonging, and identity
Why Teachers Will Value This Bundle
Supports Black History Month and year-round curriculum diversity
Provides authentic Caribbean and Black British voices
Includes primary source research material and personal testimony
Encourages enquiry-based learning and critical thinking
Suitable for classroom teaching, homework, independent research, and project work
Supports PSHE, Citizenship, English, History, Drama, and Art & Design
Why Students Will Benefit
Students will gain a deeper understanding of the experiences, achievements, and cultural contributions of Caribbean communities in Britain. The resources develop research, literacy, discussion, and analytical skills while promoting cultural awareness, inclusion, and appreciation of Black British history.
This unique bundle celebrates the important role Black British creatives played in shaping Britain's cultural landscape during the 1960s and provides meaningful opportunities for students to connect history with contemporary issues of identity, diversity, and belonging.
