Black Victorians

How much can documents reveal about the lives of Black people in Victorian Britain?

What to expect in the online workshop:   

In this online workshop in your classroom students will use a range of different sources, including census records and photographs, to learn about the diverse lives of four Black individuals who lived in Britain in the Victorian era. Pupils investigate what documents can tell us about their lives, but also reflect on the questions they leave unanswered, and consider how these can act as a catalyst for further study. The session will explore themes of migration and identity and allow students to develop their historical enquiry skills by delving into an exciting and growing area of historical research. 

The one-hour online session in your classroom is led by an experienced history educator, you only need a microphone, large screen and webcam to take part. Interactive activities encourage students to discuss their ideas and work in groups using high-quality materials provided in advance by the Education team.    

*Note we will adapt the timing of the workshop to fit with your lesson times.     

Connections to the curriculum: Victorians, Black History, Migration, British Empire. 

What to expect in the onsite workshop:  

In this onsite workshop students will use a range of different sources, including census records and photographs, to learn about the diverse lives of six Black individuals who lived in Britain in the Victorian era. Pupils investigate what documents can tell us about their lives, but also reflect on the questions they leave unanswered, and consider how these can act as a catalyst for further study. The session will explore themes of migration and identity and allow students to develop their historical enquiry skills by delving into an exciting and growing area of historical research. 

The two-hour workshop is led by an experienced history educator in an inspiring learning space at The National Archives in Kew.