Living history at dorridge
An unforgettable Black History Month Experience
A Remarkable Visitor to Dorridge
As part of our Black History Month learning, our Key Stage 2 children had the extraordinary privilege of welcoming Prince Albert ‘Jake’ Jacob, a Second World War RAF veteran and local Knowle resident who recently celebrated his 101st birthday.
Jake's visit provided our children with a rare and memorable opportunity to hear history brought to life by someone who has not only witnessed extraordinary events but played a part in them.
An Extraordinary Life
Born in Trinidad in 1925, Jake left home at just 17 years old to volunteer for the Royal Air Force during the Second World War. As one of the last surviving Caribbean RAF veterans and an early member of the Windrush generation, his remarkable life reflects courage, determination and resilience.
During the assembly, Jake shared fascinating stories about:
- Volunteering for the RAF as a teenager.
- Travelling to Britain and contributing to life in post-war Britain.
- Overcoming discrimination, segregation and other challenges throughout his life.
- His successful career with the Post Office.
- His achievements as a champion sprinter representing Great Britain.
His stories offered our children a powerful insight into British history and the significant contributions of Caribbean servicemen and women.
Prince Albert ‘Jake’ Jacob. Photograph by Vanley Burke, courtesy of The Forgotten Generations.
This is the formal black-and-white portrait displayed as part of The Forgotten Generations: Lest We Forget exhibition at the RAF Museum. It shows Jake wearing his RAF cap and medals.
A Visit We Will Never Forget
It is difficult to put into words just how captivated our children and staff were. To listen to someone who has lived through more than a century of history was a genuinely inspiring experience.
At 101 years old, Jake's warmth, humour, energy and achievements left everyone feeling both humbled and motivated.
Throughout the assembly, Jake spoke passionately about perseverance, making the most of opportunities and treating others with kindness and respect.
His visit was a wonderful reminder that history is not simply something we read about in books. It is made up of real people, lived experiences and stories that deserve to be remembered.
A Special Gift for Our School Library
We were delighted that Jake kindly donated a signed copy of Lest We Forget, published through The Forgotten Generations, to our school.
The book preserves the experiences of African and Caribbean men and women from the West Midlands who served in the RAF, including Jake himself.
This thoughtful gift will take pride of place in our Key Stage 2 library, providing a lasting opportunity for future generations of Dorridge pupils to discover these remarkable stories and understand their important place in British history.
The Forgotten Generations
The Forgotten Generations works to preserve and share the stories of African and Caribbean RAF veterans whose contributions have not always received the recognition they deserve.
Through its publications, exhibitions and educational work, the project helps ensure that these important experiences are remembered and passed on to future generations.
We are proud that our children have had the opportunity to meet Jake and learn about his remarkable life first-hand.
Why Black History Month Matters
At Dorridge Primary School, Black History Month provides an important opportunity to celebrate achievements, explore different experiences and recognise the contributions Black people have made, and continue to make, to British history and society.
Our aim is to develop children's knowledge, understanding, empathy and respect, helping them recognise that every individual has a story worth hearing.
Jake's visit brought this learning to life in the most memorable way. These important themes are explored throughout our curriculum, not just during October.
Discover More About Jake's Remarkable Life
Jake's extraordinary story extends far beyond his visit to Dorridge. From his service in the Royal Air Force during the Second World War to his achievements in later life, his experiences are an inspiring part of both British and our local history.
Read more about Jake's remarkable life and his connection to Knowle in this fascinating local history article. Jake Jacob - Solihull Life
With Our Heartfelt Thanks
We would like to express our sincere gratitude to Prince Albert ‘Jake’ Jacob for sharing his extraordinary experiences with our school community.
We are also incredibly grateful to Hassan Ashraf, father of Adam in Year 3, for arranging this wonderful opportunity, and to The Forgotten Generations for their generosity and support.
We hope this special visit marks the beginning of a lasting relationship between Jake and Dorridge Primary School.
Honouring stories. Inspiring generations.
Acknowledgement: Our thanks to Prince Albert ‘Jake’ Jacob and The Forgotten Generations. Photographs and historical information are shared with permission, with relevant image credits included where applicable.