February 18th: Today’s Feature

February

Cecile Yvonne Conolly CBE (1939 – 27 January 2021) was a pioneering Jamaican educator. She made history in 1969 as the United Kingdom's first female black headteacher at the age of 29. Conolly arrived in the UK in 1963 as part of the Windrush generation and dedicated over four decades to a successful career in education. In recognition of her contributions, she was awarded a CBE for her services to education in 2020.

Early years

Yvonne Conolly's journey to the UK from Jamaica in August 1963 marked the beginning of her life as part of the Windrush generation. With only £36 in her pocket, she embarked on a voyage alongside her friend Elizabeth Heybeard on a ship commonly referred to as a 'banana boat'. These ships were responsible for transporting numerous workers from the Caribbean to Britain during that time.

Having trained as a primary school teacher in Jamaica for three years, Conolly possessed a wealth of knowledge in British history and literature. Her desire to experience aspects of British culture, such as seeing daffodils, motivated her decision to come to England. She had read about daffodils in a poem but had never actually seen one.

The allure of Britishness and the belief that it would be a perfect fit for her led her to make the journey. However, upon her arrival on the 11th of August 1963, she was taken aback by the grey skies, red-brick houses, and the sight of smoke billowing from chimneys. The lack of sunshine, blue skies, and closed spaces made her question her decision.

Nevertheless, Conolly remained undeterred and settled in Canfield Gardens, located in West Hampstead, north London. In order to make ends meet, she took on various jobs, including babysitting, cleaning, and typing. Additionally, she managed to secure work as a supply teacher. Despite the challenges she faced upon her arrival, Conolly's determination and resilience allowed her to establish herself in her new home and pursue her career in education.

Teaching Career

Conolly, a relief teacher, was acutely aware of the racial tensions that existed in several schools where she taught. As her teaching career progressed, this awareness only grew stronger. She was appointed as a teacher at the George Eliot School in Swiss Cottage, located in north London. Over the course of five years, Conolly excelled in her role and eventually rose to the position of deputy-head of the primary school.

Originally intending to return to Jamaica after three years, she found herself surprised when, in January 1969, she was offered a promotion to become the headteacher at Ring Cross Primary School on Eden Grove in Holloway, Islington. At the young age of 29, she became the first black female headteacher in the country.

Upon assuming her new position, Conolly faced a barrage of racist abuse and even required a bodyguard to accompany her to work. Her appointment garnered significant attention from the British media, and she became the target of repeated attacks in certain national newspapers. Additionally, she received hate mail at her home.

In an interview, Conolly recalled the threats she faced, stating, "When I was appointed as headteacher, somebody threatened to burn the school down. I had newspaper articles which had announced my appointment, sent to me, crossing out my photograph with nasty comments. Happily, the parents were only interested in whether their children would get a good education, and that certainly was my focus."

Despite the negative reaction to her headship, Conolly remained steadfast in her commitment to providing an effective education to the children of her school. Her experience at Ring Cross Primary School greatly influenced her later career.

Recognising the weight of being the first-ever female black headteacher in the country, she established the Caribbean Teachers Association. The association aimed to instill confidence and offer practical advice to black teachers aspiring to become school heads. Conolly served as the headteacher of Ring Cross Primary School for nine years before leaving in 1978 to join the multi-ethnic inspectorate created by the ILEA (Inner London Education Authority).

Conolly's career as an inspector involved a thorough investigation into the issue of racism, with a specific focus on schools in Camden and Islington. Her dedication to this cause was evident as she actively participated in the home secretary's advisory council on race relations, where she made her voice heard and contributed valuable insights.

Despite formally retiring from her 40-year-long service in education in 2001, Conolly continued to play a significant role as the chair of the Caribbean Teachers' Association. This position allowed her to continue advocating for the rights and interests of Caribbean teachers, ensuring their voices were heard and their needs were addressed. Her commitment to education and her tireless efforts in fighting against racism have left a lasting impact on both the educational system and the Caribbean community.

Death and legacy

On Wednesday, 27 January 2021, Yvonne Conolly passed away at the age of 81 at the Whittington Hospital in Islington after a courageous battle with myeloma, an incurable blood cancer that she had been fighting for over a decade. Despite the challenges she faced, she never lost her determination and strength. Yvonne is survived by her loving daughter and grandson, who will continue to cherish her memory and carry on her legacy.

Yvonne Conolly's impact on the education sector in the UK cannot be overstated. The Department of Education recognised her as a true "history maker" and an inspiration to all. Her contributions as a trailblazing educator were widely acknowledged, and her dedication to empowering students and teachers alike was commendable.

Beyond her professional achievements, Yvonne was also known for her unwavering support and kindness towards others. A former editor of the Times Educational Supplement aptly described her as a remarkable individual who not only made significant strides in education but also touched the lives of those around her with her warmth and encouragement. Yvonne Conolly's legacy will undoubtedly endure, leaving an indelible mark on the field of education and the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her.

Honours and recognition

Yvonne Conolly, a distinguished figure in the field of education, was recognised for her exceptional contributions in October 2020. The Naz Legacy Foundation bestowed upon her the prestigious Honorary Fellow of Education award, a testament to her unwavering commitment to the advancement of education. The announcement of this remarkable achievement was made by none other than HRH Prince Charles, the Prince of Wales, who commended Conolly for her remarkable character and unwavering determination. Through her relentless efforts, she has successfully shattered barriers for black educators, leaving an indelible mark on the education landscape.

In addition to the Honorary Fellow of Education award, Yvonne Conolly was also honoured in the Queen's Birthday Honours in October 2020. She was appointed as a Commander of the British Empire (CBE) in recognition of her outstanding services to education.

Expressing her delight and profound sense of honour, Conolly humbly accepted the CBE, acknowledging the recognition of her lifelong dedication to the field of education. Grateful to her nominees and the Honours Committee, she expressed her pride in sharing this prestigious award with her community, emphasising the collective effort required to achieve such remarkable milestones.

Yvonne Conolly's impact extends beyond her professional achievements. In Islington, a vibrant neighbourhood in London, she is fondly remembered and celebrated. In 2019, the 'Yvonne Conolly Garden' was dedicated to her in Wray Crescent Park, located near her home in Finsbury Park. This beautiful tribute stands as a testament to her enduring legacy and the profound influence she has had on the community. It serves as a reminder of her remarkable contributions to education and her unwavering dedication to creating a better future for generations to come.