Hastings Student Notices
Hey everyone, how are you?
If you’re reading this, please let me know what information you’d like to see more of — I want this to be a useful resource for you.
I was thrilled by the great response to the trip to the Nigerian Modernism exhibition at Tate Modern! The trip is now full. I’ve replied to those who reached out by email to confirm their spot. If you’re in my student council, expressed your interest, and gave me your student number, you also have a spot. I’ll be in touch with everyone on Wednesday with more details.
If you’re still interested in coming, please email me and I’ll add you to the waiting list.
It’s almost half term — keep putting in the hard work, you’re almost there!
Written by Paige-Marie Baker-Carroll (She/They)
Paige.baker-carroll@escg.ac.uk
Black History Month
The theme for this years Black History Month is: Standing Firm in Power and Pride.
Fact of the Week:
Why do we celebrate Black History Month this time of year?
October was chosen partly because it’s traditionally a time when African leaders gather to talk about important issues and partly because it was at the start of the school year.
Business Spotlight of the Week:
Kinini Mountain Coffee
Kinini is an East Sussex-based coffee company with a farm in Rwanda. They work closely with the local population out there to not only produce premium quality coffee, but also to improve the local environment with a strong emphasis on building quality schools and local healthcare outposts, which have traditionally been lacking. The majority of the farmers are women, and Jacquie, one of the founders of Kinini, is a key member of the International Women’s Coffee Association (IWCA).
Album of the Week: Black Is King – Beyoncé
If you haven’t already, watch Beyoncé’s visual album Black Is King.
It’s a bold and visually stunning celebration of Black identity, culture, and pride.
It was originally made to go with Beyoncé’s soundtrack for The Lion King, but the album tells a much bigger story — one that celebrates Black identity and heritage. Through music, fashion, dance, and storytelling, Beyoncé draws from the global Black experience. The album sends a powerful message: Black is beautiful, Black is royal, and Black stories deserve to be at the centre.
At the same time, Black Is King has sparked discussion. While many praise its message and visuals, others have raised thoughtful questions — like whether it presents Africa too simply, or focuses too much on royalty and luxury.
When we watch or listen to something, it’s important to use our critical thinking. We are very susceptible to the information people give us, so it’s important to ask ourselves questions, form our own opinions, and reflect on what we believe is right or fair. It’s also important to remember that things are often more complex than just “good” or “bad”—many topics are a mix of different ideas.
You can watch Black Is King in full, in sequence, on Disney+, or view clips and segments on YouTube if you prefer to watch it fragmented.
