And pledge to lead the way as positive role models … .

A series of school workshops were launched on 17th November 2010, to celebrate the life and times of former Battersea Mayor, John Archer, who in November 1913 became London’s first black mayor. The workshops which were seen as an unprecedented success, involved a team of dynamic facilitators delivering a three month programme called the “John Archer role model project.” The first of which was the school workshops, but also includes a borough wide libraries exhibition, production of a limited edition book, and a schools awards open day in February 2011.

The heritage blue plaque will be unveiled on 15th December, 2010 between 11:30am and midday at 214 Battersea Park Road, the former address of John Archer. The unveiling will involve approximately 100 school students from five Wandsworth secondary schools all whose names appear on the reverse of the plaque! Taking place in the presence of the Councillor Piers McCausland – Mayor of Wandsworth and Dame Baroness Howells OBE, dignitaries, councillors, teachers, members of the public and media. This will be followed by a reception at Salesian College one of the participating secondary schools.

The John Archer role model project was created by the Nubian Jak Community Trust and funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund Archer. It involves five Wandsworth secondary schools i.e. Salesian College, Burntwood, Elliott, John Paul II, and Southfields Community College, and has captured the imagination of all the young people taking part in the project.

Julia Durrant EMA Co-ordinator at Elliott School, Putney said:
“As Elliott’s Ethnic Minority Achievement Co-ordinator I am always very keen for the students to be involved in any projects which highlight the achievements of people from minority ethnic backgrounds. It is also extremely motivating and memorable for students to have the opportunity to work with inspiring adults from different walks of life. We chose to focus on this group of students to boost their self-esteem and their belief in their ability to express themselves. The workshops sessions and field trip around Battersea have been very interesting and motivating for them.”

December 14, 2010