Although Ghana Independence Day took place on 5 March, our school calendar was full last week with World Book Day celebrations. This meant we took the opportunity during Monday’s assembly to learn more about this important national celebration.

Building on the learning we began last year, the assembly was made especially meaningful as we heard from a staff member and pupils with Ghanaian heritage, helping us understand the culture and significance of the day from those with a personal connection.

A special thank you goes to Mrs Adom-Baffour, who looked superb in her traditional Ghanaian outfit. In fact, she proudly wore a Ghanaian dress for over a week to help the children learn more about the culture and traditions of Ghana. And, she had gifted many staff members with outfits too.

Mrs Adom-Baffour was wonderfully supported by two Year 3 pupils, who sang a beautiful Ghanaian lullaby and helped explain the meaning of the Ghanaian flag, including the symbolism behind its colours.

During the assembly, children also learned why Ghana’s independence was so important. Ghana became the first country in sub-Saharan Africa to gain independence from British colonial rule in 1957, giving the people of Ghana the right to govern their own country and shape their own future. This moment was hugely significant and inspired many other African nations to seek independence as well.

To finish our assembly, the whole school came together in celebration, dancing to Afro beats, having been taught some moves by Mrs Adom-Baffour. It was a joyful and energetic way to celebrate Ghanaian culture and to recognise the importance of freedom, identity and heritage.