Social Justice Plaques: History, Heritage and Social Justice

We are delighted to be running our Social Justice Plaques programme again this year, which allows Year 9 students to engage deeply in the study of History, Heritage and Commemoration, and in the idea of Social Justice.

What is the Social Justice Plaque Project?

Starting from the premise that too many of our schoolchildren are either not engaged with our city’s history and heritage, or do not feel their own experiences are reflected in the city’s commemoration of that heritage, this project invites them to research and investigate figures from the historical past whom they believe ought to be commemorated but have not been. We think about who has been commemorated, and why. Who gets to choose, and how?

The project then moves to its key question: if you were given a blank blue heritage plaque, who would you choose to put on it and why? At the end of the project, your school will be presented with a plaque honouring the historic figure of your choice.

Leicester Museum and Galleries have indicated that they will display the social justice stories created by students (who complete both stages of the project) of any local figures who meet their guidelines in the People's Gallery.

Who can attend?

The project is open to Year 9 schoolchildren.

When and Where?

Stage 1

In the build-up to the visit day, classes will prepare by using specially created resource packs, including a lesson plan, lesson activities and worksheets.

Stage 2

An on-campus visit day will be held in December 2024. It will feature interactive sessions, quizzes, and the guided use of a curated document pack compiled from the University of Leicester’s library, archives and manuscripts.

Schools have the option of receiving the classroom resources without attending the on-campus event when signing up.

How can I sign up?

Complete the expression of interest form.

Schools that are successfully selected will be contacted within six to eight weeks prior to the date chosen on the form and sent the necessary booking documentation, allowing time to make suitable travel arrangements. In the meantime, if you have any questions about the event please email schools@le.ac.uk.