News from Mr Grady
Thursday 8th October 2026
Hello everyone,
October is Black History Month, and across RHS and RH6 we will be taking time to celebrate, learn, reflect and, perhaps most importantly, listen.
As a school, we are enormously proud of the diversity of the RHS community. Walk through the corridors, visit our classrooms, listen to conversations at breaktime, and you will hear different languages, different stories, different experiences and different perspectives. It is one of our school's greatest strengths, the wonderful melting pot of so many different cultures that reminds us that there is no single story that defines who we are.
Black History Month provides an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the achievements, contributions and influence of Black individuals and communities throughout history and in contemporary society, ensuring that the story of Britain, and indeed the world, is far richer and more diverse than any one narrative can tell, and it fills me with joy that I know our curriculum presents those different narratives, not just in this month, but throughout the year. Our curriculum allows students to explore the lives and achievements of influential Black figures from a wide range of fields including science, literature, sport, politics, medicine, music and education, discussing not only well-known names, but also those whose contributions may not always receive the recognition they deserve.
Importantly, Black History Month is not simply about looking backwards. It is also about understanding the present and helping to shape the future. It encourages us to ask questions, challenge assumptions and develop a deeper appreciation of the experiences of others. These are qualities that sit at the heart of our approach here at RHS – Be curious; ask questions; read widely; listen carefully; share your own experiences and be interested in the experiences of others.
One of the great joys of working in such a welcoming, friendly and empathetic school is that every day provides an opportunity to learn something new. As Headteacher, I frequently discover that a student can tell me about a language I have never heard spoken, a cultural tradition I knew nothing about, or a historical figure who somehow escaped my own education. It is a useful reminder that learning never stops, regardless of how long one has been in school, or regardless of one’s age or experience.
This month, I encourage all of our students to engage enthusiastically with the activities, discussions and opportunities that will take place. I thank our diversity prefects in advance for their work on these activities this month, and thank all members of our community for continuing to make our school a place where Kindness, Care and Respect are lived values rather than simply words on a poster.
In the meantime, stay well and safe everyone,
Best wishes,
Mr Grady
