Learning at the Heart of the Centre

The Free University

Launched in September 1971, the Free University provided courses covering social studies, English society, the Third World and “Man in Revolt”, as well as subjects such as basic law, English and English literature, mathematics, dress design, Swahili, office skills, guitar lessons and motor mechanics. Classes were run by local qualified or trainee teachers.

Regular guest speakers were invited, including Andrew Salkey, Jamaican writer and activist, and Walter Rodney, Guyanese historian, academic and activist.

Library, Bookshop & Café

These educational events were supported by the NJC Bookshop, NJC Reference Library and the NJC Café, which sold coffee, soft drinks and confectionery donated by trustees and local people. Books donated or sold at reduced prices by educational institutions and bookshops formed part of the Centre’s valuable learning resources.

Nello James Library

From humble beginnings as a room where unwanted or surplus books were left by the community, the library grew into a sophisticated reading and work space for children and adults. Over the years it included five computers, two printers, a collection of books by African and Caribbean writers and a leather-bound 1993 Encyclopaedia Britannica set, including the Great Writers collection.

Nello James Supplementary School

Running from 1992 to 2005, the Nello James Supplementary School was inspired by a desire to prevent Black children from falling behind or failing in school. It also helped students who wanted to perform at a higher level, whether in state schools, academies, grammar schools or private settings.

Classes were run on Saturdays and Monday afternoons after school. Over the years, the school helped raise students’ confidence and supported many in attaining places in grammar schools.

NJSS Summer School

In conjunction with regular classes and with the support of teachers, parents and volunteers, the Supplementary School ran themed summer holiday programmes combining classroom learning, physical activities, music, artistic work, drama and educational outings, ending with a large fun trip and a presentation for parents and carers.