As Black History Month arrives for 2024, South Bank Colleges are proud to celebrate the achievements, contributions, and heritage of Black individuals within our college community and the wider society. London, one of the most ethnically diverse cities in the world, is home to a vibrant Black community, and at South Bank Colleges, this diversity is reflected in our staff, students, and partnerships across the boroughs of Lambeth, Wandsworth, and Southwark.
Embracing Diversity and Opportunity
South Bank Colleges have long recognised the importance of an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. The college serves a diverse student body, with approximately 25% to 30% of Lambeth’s population identifying as Black, and we are proud to offer opportunities that reflect the aspirations and needs of our students. Our aim is to close achievement gaps, break down barriers to success, and provide a pathway for all students to reach their full potential.
One of the key events taking place this Black History Month is the Black Entrepreneurship and Enterprise Fair on the 24th of October at our Nine Elms campus. This exciting event will showcase the achievements of Black business owners, entrepreneurs, and leaders, offering an inspiring platform for students to learn from real-life success stories. With industry speakers and various stalls, the event aims to empower the next generation of leaders and innovators in our community.
Leading Change: The Black Leadership Development Programme
South Bank Colleges is also committed to ensuring that our own workforce reflects the communities we serve, and the Management and Leadership Development Programme for Black Staff is a vital part of this commitment. Now in its fourth year, this initiative is designed to address the underrepresentation of Black staff in leadership roles within the education sector. The programme, which offers a structured pathway into management and senior leadership, demonstrates our dedication to creating a more diverse and inclusive leadership team.
The leadership programme runs over an academic year and offers two tiers: Tier 1 for staff with no previous management experience and Tier 2 for those already in management roles looking to progress into senior positions. Both tiers are accredited by the Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM), ensuring participants receive a nationally recognised qualification. By fostering leadership within the Black community at South Bank Colleges, we hope to inspire students by providing visible role models and future leaders.
The Importance of Representation
Representation matters—especially in education. Our students come from diverse backgrounds, and it is crucial that they see themselves reflected at every level of the college, from the classroom to the leadership team. Positive Black role models not only inspire ambition but also demonstrate that career success is achievable.
At South Bank Colleges, we are proud to champion equality, diversity, and inclusion, as reflected in our EDI objectives. We believe that by continuing to create opportunities for staff and students alike, we can help build a future where talent and potential are not limited by race, but nurtured and celebrated.
Looking Ahead
As we celebrate Black History Month this October, we do so with an eye on the future. South Bank Colleges will continue to invest in its community, offering initiatives like the Black Leadership Development Programme and the Black Entrepreneurship and Enterprise Fair, ensuring that our students and staff are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and support they need to succeed.
We invite all members of the South Bank Colleges community to join us in these celebrations, to participate in the events, and to continue the vital work of fostering diversity and inclusion across the college and beyond.
Together, we can make lasting change.
