Our Black History Month celebrations opened with a powerful assembly led by Darla Gilroy in honour of her mother, Dr Beryl Gilroy, educator, novelist, psychotherapist, poet, and Britain’s first Black head teacher.
Born in Guyana in 1924, Beryl emigrated to London in 1952 as part of the Windrush Generation. Her first teaching role was in Bethnal Green in 1954, followed by a post at Lisson Grove a year later. By 1968 she had become Deputy Headteacher at Montem School, and in 1969 she made history when she was appointed London’s first Black headteacher at West Hampstead Primary School.
This July, NLCS proudly unveiled a plaque in her honour, marking her extraordinary contribution to education and ensuring that her story continues to inspire future generations of young women.
Dr Beryl Gilroy Plaque at NLCS
Darla spoke movingly about her mother’s journey, from her early struggles to the extraordinary impact she had on British education. She reminded us to be stubborn about the things we are passionate about, undeterred by those who try to stop us, and relentless in carving out our own path.
Beryl’s life and work continue to inspire generations. As Roger Robinson reflected, “Reading Black Teacher makes me aware that Beryl Gilroy was not only teaching children but also everyone around her how to live respectfully whilst negotiating life in an England.” Filmmaker Steve McQueen called her a trailblazer: “Beryl Gilroy blazed a path that empowered generations of Black British educators and for that I’m thankful.” And the late Benjamin Zephaniah urged us to read her story: “Her life makes you laugh. Her life makes you cry. Beryl Gilroy’s strength and intelligence is inspirational. She paved the way for so many of us. Get to know her.”
Alongside Darla’s moving address, our students will be engaging with a vibrant programme of events throughout October, including:
- Pure Science Discussion Group exploring contributions to science from Black scientists
- Middle School Debate on whether music and art are stronger tools for change than politics
- Upper School Debate on whether the UK should return historical artefacts to their country of origin
- Film and Media Screenings such as Hidden Figures and The Hate U Give
- Law Seminar on Power and Prejudice and the role of law in racial justice
- Psychology Session exploring the pioneering work of Mamie and Kenneth Clark
- Classics Lecture and Discussion on post-colonialism in Sophocles’ Oedipus Tyrannos and Rotimi’s The Gods Are Not to Blame
Dr Beryl Gilroy receives her honorary fellowship from the University of London (picture courtesy of the Beryl Gilroy estate)
From her honorary fellowship at the University of London to the mural dedicated to her in 2022, Beryl Gilroy’s legacy continues to be recognised across the country. At NLCS, we are proud to honour her memory and to mark Black History Month with events that challenge, inspire and celebrate.
From her honorary fellowship at the University of London to the mural dedicated to her in 2022, Beryl Gilroy’s legacy continues to be recognised across the country. At NLCS, we are proud to honour her memory and to mark Black History Month with events that challenge, inspire and celebrate.
