Less than 1% of university academics are Black, according to the RHS’s report

This resource is free to everyone. For access to our library of high-quality secondary history materials along with free or discounted CPD and membership of a thriving community of history teachers and subject leaders, join the Historical Association today

This film (above) recorded in March 2019 features a discussion between Jatinder Kailey, Janine Anolue & Abimbola Ojemakinde responding to the recent publication of a RHS report which highlights racial and ethnic inequalities in the teaching and practice of history in the UK.

The report draws attention to the fact that while history remains a popular choice at GCSE and A-level, BAME students are less likely than their peers to choose history in examination or university applications. Under-representation at all levels is particularly apparent for Black students.

The Historical Association (HA) has been concerned about the engagement of Black and all BAME students with history at school for some time, and a Freedom of Information request made to the DfE by the Historical Association in 2016 only cemented these concerns. The response to this request indicated that of the students entered for history at A-Level only approximately 4% of students (in Year 13) were Black and 6% Asian, although the data was supplied with caveats around how such information was gathered.

A-level students respond to the RHS report

Filmed discussion featuring A Level history students (City and Islington College) talking about their thoughts on the RHS report:

Head Teacher responds to the RHS report

Simon Harrison gives a headteacher perspective on the findings of the RHS report: