Inspiring Voices: Year 8 and 9 Students Meet Their Local Heroes

A group of our Year 8 and 9 students recently took part in the Local Heroes project, and the day was both inspiring and memorable. From the moment they arrived at the venue, curiosity set the tone. Questions about the history of the location came quickly, showing how ready they were to immerse themselves in the experience.

The Local Heroes project is a community initiative that connects young people with individuals who have made a difference in their local area. At its heart is the practice of oral history—recording and sharing lived experiences in people’s own words. Unlike textbooks, oral histories capture personal perspectives and emotions that might otherwise be lost. For young people, taking part in these projects is invaluable: they learn to listen carefully, ask thoughtful questions, and understand history as something alive and human.

The workshop gave students the chance to work in teams, take on different roles, and discover how collaboration makes every voice count. They weren’t just listening—they were actively involved, interviewing and recording stories, and developing confidence as communicators.

One of the highlights was meeting Alfred Blake, a local gentleman who grew up in South London and has a decorated military past. Alfred’s warmth and humour immediately drew the students in. His stories sparked genuine interest, with reactions ranging from surprise to laughter. As the conversation unfolded, students grew more confident, moving beyond prepared questions to explore his experiences in greater depth.