St Helen’s School in Northwood hosted its second annual post-colonial conference, where Year 12 students explored post-colonial themes in literature, history, and politics.
The event, held on March 10, aimed to deepen students’ understanding of the effect empire and colonialism still have on society.
The day was filled with interactive workshops, including one run by award-winning poet Daljit Nagra.
His work reflects his British-Indian heritage and offers insights into identity, immigration, and cultural legacy.
He spoke about his poetic journey, including his collection Look We Have Coming to Dover! and his most recent work, Indiom, which was named The Guardian’s Poetry Book of the Year in 2023.
Students were also given the opportunity to buy signed copies of his books.
The conference featured a range of cross-curricular workshops led by members of the St Helen’s staff.
Helen Sinclair, from the history department, guided students through an analysis of decolonisation and its ongoing impacts on global societies.
Head of politics Phil Whalley explored the political structures and systemic inequalities that have emerged in post-colonial states.
Rebecca Reidel-Fry, who teaches history of art, examined how art has been used both as a tool of resistance and as a reflection of colonial histories.
Reflecting on the event, Year 12 students Rhea, Amal, and Natalie said: “We felt very blessed and lucky to see so many knowledgeable speakers to teach us about such an important topic.
“It was highly enlightening and inspirational.”
Another Year 12 student, Janae, said: “It was very informative and it urged me to expand and take interest in the politics behind colonialism.”
The conference also welcomed students from Pinner High School.
One Piiner student said: “It was a great opportunity and I had a wonderful time.
“Thanks for inviting us.”
A huge thank you was given to Daljit Nagra, staff, and the English department conference leads, Suraya Ahmed and Tina Courtenay-Thompson, for organising the day.
