Every year, from 20th November to 20th December, the UK observes Disability History Month (UKDHM) - a time dedicated to recognising the struggles, achievements, and contributions of disabled people throughout history. Established in 2010, UKDHM shines a light on the ongoing fight for equality and human rights, while encouraging society to challenge ableism and create inclusive spaces for all. 

What Is Disability History Month?

UKDHM is more than a commemorative event; it is a movement. It aims to:

• Celebrate the resilience and achievements of disabled individuals.
• Educate about historical injustices, from institutionalisation to eugenics.
• Advocate for systemic change, ensuring disabled voices lead conversations about rights and inclusion. 

The month also aligns with key international observances such as World AIDS Day (1 Dec), International Day of Persons with Disabilities (3 Dec), and Human Rights Day (10 Dec), reinforcing the global nature of disability rights.

Theme for 2025: “Disability, Life and Death”

This year’s theme, Disability, Life and Death, addresses pressing ethical and social questions surrounding assisted dying legislation currently debated in Parliament. Many disabled activists fear that such laws could undermine their right to life, echoing historical prejudices that once justified sterilisation, euthanasia, and exclusion under the guise of “mercy.” 

The theme calls for reflection on:

• The inherent value of disabled lives, as affirmed by Article 10 of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

• Historical lessons, from Nazi-era atrocities to the eugenics movement, remind us why vigilance against discriminatory ideologies remain vital.

How Is It Celebrated?

Across the UK, organisations, schools, and communities host:

• Educational events: Panels, lectures, and workshops exploring disability rights history.
• Arts and culture programmes: Exhibitions like the V&A’s Design and Disability showcase the creative contributions of disabled artists. 
• Campaigns and activism: Trade unions, charities, and grassroots groups amplify disabled voices, demanding better access and inclusion in workplaces and public life.
• Digital resources, storytelling projects, and social media campaigns also play a huge role in spreading awareness and fostering dialogue nationwide.

Why It Matters

Disability History Month reminds us that progress is not guaranteed. While landmark laws such as the Disability Discrimination Act (1995) and the Equality Act (2010) have advanced rights, systemic barriers persist. UKDHM is a call to action: to dismantle ableism, prioritise accessibility, and ensure that disabled people are not only included but empowered to lead. 

Get Involved

Visit UKDHM.org for resources, event listings, and educational materials. Whether you attend a local event, share stories online, or advocate for inclusive policies, your participation helps build a society where every life is valued equally.

Woolwich Polytechnic Sixth Form Alumni Stories | Meet Chinonso

We are so proud to share the second in a series of seven inspiring alumni videos from Woolwich Polytechnic Sixth Form.

Chinonso completed the full 7 years at Woolwich Poly before leaving in 2017. He looks back fondly on the amazing teachers, staff, and classmates who went the extra mile and made his journey unforgettable.

Today, he’s thriving as a rail engineer while also building his own gaming agency in his spare time.

Watch his story and see how the Poly spirit continues to inspire!

Woolwich Polytechnic School is delighted to celebrate the outstanding success of former student Kaycee Mbette, who has earned a full football scholarship to Bradfield College, one of the UK’s premier sporting institutions.

Kaycee exemplifies the values of a true Poly Boy - humour, compassion, kindness, and resilience. His exceptional football talent, combined with determination and a positive attitude, has opened doors to opportunities that will last a lifetime.

Reflecting on his journey, Kaycee shared:
"I started Year 11 without a clear idea of what my next step after GCSEs would be. Many said it was too late for a football career, but I stayed strong and kept working hard. When Mr Walsh selected me for a trial at Bradfield College, I was shocked by the facilities and the chance to make it there. A week before my first GCSE exam, I got the call saying a space had opened for a scholarship - I was over the moon! I focused on my exams, worked hard, and shortly after, I was offered a full scholarship."

Kaycee now trains four times a week while studying for his A Levels and has already competed against prestigious colleges such as Eton. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to Woolwich Poly staff, especially Mr Walsh, for their unwavering support:
"I will never forget what they have done for me - I couldn’t have done it without them. My message to younger students is simple: never give up and take every opportunity given to you!"

Miss R James, Head of Year: 
"Kaycee has always been the epitome of a Poly Boy. His humour, compassion, kindness, and resilience have shone through in everything he does. His exceptional talent and determination have led him to an incredible scholarship at Bradfield College. We could not be happier for him."

This achievement highlights Woolwich Polytechnic School’s commitment to nurturing talent and supporting students to reach their full potential - both academically and beyond.

As Remembrance Day approaches, we prepare to honour the bravery, sacrifice, and service of all those who have defended our freedoms in times of war and conflict. It is a time for reflection - a moment to remember those who gave their lives, those who returned forever changed, and the generations who continue to carry their legacy.

Across our schools, we are marking this important occasion through assemblies, creative tributes, and moments of silence, encouraging thoughtful engagement and respect.

We are also proud to support the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal, with poppies being sold throughout our school communities. This initiative not only raises vital funds but also helps our young people understand the significance of remembrance and the values it represents.

In the lead-up to 11th November, we invite our community to reflect on the values of peace, unity, and gratitude. Let us come together to remember - and to reaffirm our commitment to building a future shaped by compassion and hope.

We will remember them.

Remembrance - Royal British Legion

Take part in Remembrance

Woolwich Polytechnic Sixth Form Alumni Stories | Best Bits

We are so proud to share the first in a series of seven inspiring alumni videos from Woolwich Polytechnic Sixth Form.

Hear directly from former students as they reflect on their time with us.

This ‘best bits’ video offers a glimpse into their journeys of growth, ambition, and achievement – all of which began right here.

What makes us even prouder? So many of our alumni return to give back, support and uplift our school community.

New videos will be released over the coming weeks, so stay tuned as we continue to celebrate the incredible stories of our alumni.

Inspired by their stories?

Apply today and take your next step with Woolwich Polytechnic Sixth Form

London Trust Leaders Network Gathers at Drapers’ Hall for Insightful Autumn Session

On Tuesday 7th October, the London Trust Leaders Network (LTLN) convened once again for a dynamic morning of discussion and collaboration at the stunning Drapers’ Hall in London. The event brought together senior education leaders from across the capital to explore key developments in policy, planning, and inclusion.

The morning began with refreshments and informal networking from 9:30am, before the agenda officially opened at 10:00am with a session led by Alan Parnum, Acting Regional Director at the Department for Education, who was joined by colleagues Dominic Riddex and Judith Fuller. Together, they provided a comprehensive overview of current headlines in education, pupil place planning, and strategies for mainstream inclusion. Their insights were followed by a contribution from Matt Jones, RISE Advisor, who added further depth to the discussion with practical strategies and sector-wide perspectives.

Following a short break at 11:30am, attendees heard from Steve Rollett, Deputy CEO of the Confederation of School Trusts (CST), who provided valuable updates on national policy and the evolving landscape of trust inspection.

Reflecting on the event, several founding members and attendees shared their thoughts:

Tim Plumb, CEO of PolyMAT:
“The strength of the London Trust Leaders Network lies in its ability to bring together diverse voices and experiences. Events like this allow us to stay ahead of policy changes and ensure our schools are best placed to support every child.”

Matthew Kleiner-Mann, CEO of The Ivy Learning Trust:
“Having the opportunity to connect, exchange ideas, and tackle shared challenges with fellow trust leaders is what makes the LTLN so impactful. These moments of genuine connection are where real progress begins.”

Sian John, Chief Talent Officer at E-ACT:
“It is so exciting to see how the LTLN continues to grow. We are expanding our reach and connecting with more leaders-especially through LinkedIn. The momentum we are building is a reflection of the passion and commitment across our sector.”

Gill Kemp, CEO of University Schools Trust:
“It was lovely to be back at Drapers’ Hall. Thanks to a valued contact from our Trust, we’re fortunate to be able to host an LTLN event here annually. The setting adds a sense of occasion and tradition that perfectly complements the forward-thinking spirit of our discussions.”

The LTLN was established by Gill Kemp, Matthew Kleiner-Mann, Tim Plumb, and Sian John—leaders who envisioned a collaborative space for London-based trust leaders to share best practice, influence policy, and drive meaningful change across the education sector.

The atmosphere throughout the morning was one of genuine engagement and shared purpose. We thoroughly enjoyed welcoming colleagues to Drapers’ Hall and look forward to even more trust leaders joining us for the next LTLN event.