Each week, you’ll join a two-hour live session on Google Meet that combines:

•  Lecture – where key contexts and debates are introduced.
•  Group Discussion – a chance to exchange ideas, question assumptions, and engage with multiple perspectives.
•  Application Tasks – short written, creative, or research activities to apply your learning.

To make the most of each session, you’ll be expected to complete pre-reading or watch short video clips before class. Beyond the live class, plan to spend at least two additional hours each week on independent study — reading, reflecting, and engaging with further resources. Some book purchases will be required; a reading list will be provided in advance.

This is a course that asks you to think deeply and work consistently, but in return it offers a truly transformative learning experience.

Rather than static topics, each session is built around searching, provocative questions designed to spark debate, challenge assumptions, and stretch your thinking. For example:

• What does it mean to be both Black and British — and how has that identity been defined, resisted, and reshaped across generations?
• Why do we still know so little about Britain’s deep ties to slavery and empire — is this deliberate forgetting or cultural amnesia?
• How did everyday acts of resistance — from workplace struggles to street protests — shape the freedoms Black Britons enjoy today?
• Why have the stories of Black women — organisers, thinkers, artists — been consistently erased from the “official” history of Britain?
• Is “Black British culture” a form of survival, a challenge to the mainstream, or the very thing that defines modern Britain?
• From the Mangrove Nine to the Stephen Lawrence case, what do landmark moments of  Black resistance reveal about justice, policing, and power in Britain?
• Does the literature of Black Britain — from poets like Zephaniah to novelists like Levy — tell us more about belonging, identity, and hope than politics ever could?
• If we truly “decolonised” British history and education, how different would our idea of Britain — and ourselves — look today?

You’ll be expected to complete two short homework tasks each week (reading, reflection, or creative response). Homework is compulsory, as it underpins class discussion and critical engagement.

Over the course, you will also prepare a short presentation — this might be historical research, a critical reflection, or a creative project. It’s your chance to share your voice and contribute to the group’s collective learning.

All resources, pre-reading, and tasks will be uploaded to Google Classroom, which also serves as a space for peer support and ongoing discussion.

By the end of the course, you will have:

• Developed broad knowledge of Black Britain, the Caribbean, Africa, and the wider diaspora.
• Explored central themes such as resistance, identity, migration, culture, and activism.
• Gained confidence in analysing sources, questioning ideas, and linking history to present-day issues.
• Strengthened your independent study habits and critical reflection.
• Shared your learning through presentations, discussions, and community engagement.

This course is ideal for:

•  Adults of all ages who want to deepen their knowledge of Black history and Black Studies.
•  Lifelong learners, community leaders, educators, and professionals seeking to expand their understanding.
•  Parents who want to strengthen their knowledge to support their children.
•  Individuals who may have missed this education in school but are determined to engage with it now.
•  Anyone willing to commit to independent reading, reflection, and active participation alongside weekly classes.

No prior academic experience is required — only curiosity, commitment, and an openness to learn.

You may choose either Saturday or Wednesday. Both groups follow the same programme in the same order.

Groups are capped at 6 students maximum to ensure depth of discussion and personal support.

The Black Studies for Adults Course runs across 12 weeks and is divided into two teaching terms of 6 weeks each.

•  Each class costs £25 per session.
•  Fees are paid per term in advance (£150 for 6 sessions).
•  Students are expected to commit to the full programme, completing both terms.
•  For those who cannot commit, an ad-hoc drop-in option is available at £30 per session, payable at least 24 hours in advance.

Termly Payment Schedule

The course runs across 12 weeks of teaching, with one live class per week. You may choose either Wednesday evenings (20:30–22:30) or Saturday evenings (17:00–19:00). Both groups cover the same content in the same order.

Term Dates

Month 1: Foundations and Resistance

Month 2: Migration, Labour, and Culture

Complete the registration form below on this page to secure your place.

Or email info@mrburkesclassroom.com for more information.

Once registered, you will receive:

• Confirmation of your place
• Google Classroom access (pre-reading, reflection tasks, resources)
• Payment instructions
• Your first class details

 Places are limited and will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis.