Students were shown Enoch Powell’s infamous ‘Rivers of Blood’ speech and had their reactions to it filmed as part of a BBC broadcast marking its 50th anniversary.
A BBC crew visited Highfields to film Politics Reporter, Elizabeth Glinka, and writer, Benjamin Zephaniah, interviewing nine students from Years 12 and 13.
The students were played the entire speech, which controversial former Wolverhampton MP Enoch Powell had delivered in 1968, and had their reactions recorded. The show aired on BBC2’s The Daily Politics Show on Thursday, April 19th.
Mr K Blower, Head of Sixth Form, said: “The BBC particularly wanted to film the views of students in Wolverhampton on the 50th anniversary of the infamous speech as Enoch Powell represented Wolverhampton South West when he delivered it.
“We asked for volunteers and had a number of students come forward who were keen to take part. They thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to comment on a speech that caused a political storm and made Enoch Powell of the most talked about and divisive politicians in the country. They were amazed at how opinions had changed so dramatically in the 50 years since the speech was made.”
One of the students said: “I had heard parts of the speech previously, but not all of it. It is eye-opening to see how opinions have changed over time. It was a brilliant experience and I’m thankful I had the opportunity to take part.”
Another said: “When we were initially told about the opportunity, we researched the speech. We actually thought it wasn’t real. We couldn’t believe this actually happened!”
To watch the BBC report, click here
