Students at Vanguard School, a specialist autistic school in Lambeth, have welcomed acclaimed poet and writer Dean Atta to school, as part of a programme of events to celebrate inclusion during Black History Month.

During the visit, Dean – who is a British poet of Greek Cypriot and Caribbean descent – read excerpts from his award-winning novel The Black Flamingo, about a boy coming to terms with his identity as a mixed-race gay teen. He also led students in years 8 to 12 through an inspiring creative writing workshop, sharing tips and techniques and encouraging them to explore their own identities through their writing.

In the same week, Ellisha Soanes, a leader on equality, diversity and inclusion, delivered an empowering assembly to students. Ellisha, who has advised the Department for Education and is a consultant specialist to a number of schools and colleges, spoke to students about developing their own voice and how to be their own on advocates – the 'game changers' they need.

At the end of the month, students are looking forward to a visit from Danny Sapani – the British actor best known for appearing in Little Britain, Misfits, Doctor Who, Penny Dreadful, The Crown, Star Wars: The Last Jedi and Black Panther.

Other visits and activities up to half term include an African Drumming workshop, performance by fusion band Celloman, a reading from poet Patience Agbabi and session with professional illustrator Chanté.

Stuart Parker-Tyreman, Principal, Vanguard School, part of Liberty Academy Trust, said: “We work hard to create a school environment in which students feel included members of a welcoming and supportive community. It has been inspiring to introduce them to successful role models with many different lived experiences, whose achievements demonstrate that everyone’s voice has value – something we wholeheartedly believe at Vanguard School. I am hugely grateful to all our guests, and staff, who have made this wonderful programme possible.”