In February students from five of our Foundation schools came together to present a moving and thought-provoking performance piece called "Delivering Hope".
Through a blend of dance and spoken word, pupils brought the extraordinary story of the 6888th Battalion to life. 81 years ago, this inspirational all-Black, all-female U.S. Army unit was deployed overseas during WWII and stationed at Kind Edward's School in 1945, working tirelessly to clear a backlog of mail for U.S. troops in Europe. Seeing their story of courage, resilience and service told in such a powerful way is true a testament to all of the hard work that has gone into this performance piece.
As part of this event, pupils from King Edward VI Northfield School for Girls, King Edward's School, Birmingham and King Edward VI High School for Girls created stunning art pieces for an exhibit as part of the 6888 Project, paying homage to the incredible women of the 6888th Battalion.
The event was such a powerful display of the collaboration, talent and dedication within the schools. We are so proud to have seen so many staff, students and creative professionals coming together in this Foundation-wide project.
From Miss Jenny Adey,
"12 months ago, I watched Tyler Perry's The Six Triple Eight and an idea was born. Fast forward and on Friday 13th February, practically 81 years to the day the battalion were stationed at the King Edward School, that idea came to life in the most incredible performance and art exhibition.
From vision to stage, from inspiration to execution. What a phenomenal night and an unforgettable experience. To help share the story of the women of the 6888th Central Postal Battalion has been an honour and a truly humbling experience.
Five schools across our trust collaborating and coming together to share the story through dance, spoken word and art, to celebrate and amplify the story of these extraordinary women. The whole project also echoes our Foundation values, ambition, accessibility, care, collaboration, excellence and integrity. Seeing pupils from different schools come together and feel connected to the Foundation's wider community has been a big part of this project.
I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved and this has probably been the pinnacle of my career. It has been an absolute privilege to lead this project with an incredible creative team and an incredible group of pupils. We definitely did Deliver Hope!"
A big congratulations to Miss Jenny Adey, Creative Director Clare Palethorpe, dance artists Jade Barnes, Tori Drew and Marcia Edwards, and spoken word artist Kurly, as well as every student and staff member who has brought this production to life.
Proudly involving students from:
- King Edward VI Northfield School for Girls
- King Edward VI Handsworth School for Girls
- King Edward VI Sheldon Heath Academy
- King Edward VI Handsworth Wood Girls' Academy
- King Edward VI Lordswood School for Girls
