College secures exhibition celebrating Windrush generation

Derby College Group has secured its own exhibition celebrating those from the Windrush generation who have helped shape Derby.

The exhibition pays homage to the legacy and impact of the African Caribbean community in Derbyshire, recounting remarkable journeys and sharing captivating stories of those who arrived during the Windrush era.

It will be an invaluable learning resource for the students, helping them gain a greater understanding as to how those who arrived on the HMT Empire Windrush in 1948 overcame challenges and contributed positively to Derby.

Last week, as part of Colleges Week, a delegation came to Derby College Group’s Roundhouse Campus to celebrate the opening of the exhibition.

Attending the event were George Grignon, the exhibition commissioner and consort of the High Sheriff of Derbyshire, Theresa Peltier, the first black High Sheriff for Derbyshire and Barrie and Tom Douce Junior, direct descendants of their Windrush-era father, Thomas.

Students listened to a series of talks from the delegation and from Samantha Rosser, a Derby College Group business student.

In his address, George paid tribute to Andrew Cochrane, the college’s chair of governors and Under Sheriff of Derbyshire, who was instrumental in securing the exhibition.

He said: “I’m delighted that the exhibition will be at Derby College as it brings the Derbyshire history to life for the students.

“We need to remember, we are talking about an era when there were notices in windows saying ‘No Irish, No Blacks, No Dogs’, so there was much to put up with for the black community and this is reflected in their determination to succeed.

“The students will have the opportunity to explore the stories, learn about the legacy and the contribution of the Windrush Generation.

“And as many of the people featured in the exhibition haven’t been acknowledged for their positive impact, this is a fitting tribute to them.”