The teaching and perception of Indian Independence in British schools present a complex and evolving narrative. Historically, this crucial event has been underrepresented in the curriculum, resulting in a limited understanding among students, especially those of Indian heritage.
As we commemorate Indian Independence Day, experts share their insights with Asian Voice on the current approach to teaching Indian Independence in British schools, the importance of understanding Partition, and related issues.
Historian and teacher Shalina Patel highlighted British schools current approach to the teaching of Indian Independence within the broader context of the British Empire. She said, “Indian Independence and the British Empire is a historical topic that schools can choose to teach but it is not a compulsory element. Increasingly more schools are now teaching the British Empire with the story of Indian Independence as part of that, but it’s not something that has historically been part of many school history curricula. For the past 15 years, I've taught Indian history starting with Mughal India to give students context before British rule. Understanding the Mughal decline helps explain the rise of the East India Company. I focus on 1857 and figures like the Rani of Jhansi to engage students in the struggle for freedom.”
Speaking about Indian Independence needs more depth and diverse perspectives in British schools for a balanced understanding, she said, “One of the key reasons why many schools won’t teach Indian Independence is because of lack of specific subject knowledge from teachers about this context. This is one of the reasons I wrote about it in my book The History Lessons - this is part of Britain's shared history with India but is misunderstood and oversimplified often. This is why I consulted the textbook ‘The British Empire (Depth Study)’ by Oxford University Press. The chapter on Indian Independence and Partition helps teachers present this history in a balanced and comprehensive way. I'm proud that the book's cover, which I designed, features key figures Gandhi and Sarojini Naidu.”
Speaking about the Partition Group, Chair of Partition Education Group Raj Unsworth said, “Academies aren't required to follow the national curriculum, often focusing instead on Ofsted's expectations. Also they need to say the majority of schools in England, especially secondaries are academies. With Bridget Phillipson as the new Secretary of State for Education, there’s an opportunity to revise the curriculum and potentially include academies. This is particularly important for teaching Partition, a crucial yet overlooked topic. My personal connection to Partition began when I attended a House of Commons gathering after responding to Dr Binita Kane's tweet. The deeply moving accounts from diverse attendees underscored the need for better education on South Asian contributions and history. The goal is to influence the national curriculum to ensure future generations grasp this vital part of history.”
Speaking about how important it is to know about partition, she said, “Partition is a crucial part of history that children, young people, and even adults need to understand, especially for a sense of identity and belonging. The partition of 1947 led to the creation of two separate nations, India and Pakistan, marking the end of British rule in the Indian subcontinent. It’s not about changing the past—we can't do that—but about educating people to better understand how Britain has become what it is today. This understanding should be taught in both primary and secondary schools to ensure a comprehensive grasp of its impact.”
“It's important for children to understand the history of Indian Independence, including how it was established and the key figures involved, like Gandhi and Nehru. In secondary school, this can be explored in more detail, but at the primary level, the focus should be on teaching empathy. Children need to learn that no one is superior because of their skin colour or appearance; we are all human beings and must treat each other with respect. It's crucial to start this education early, teaching young people that differences in looks or hairstyles, like Afro hair, don’t define a person's worth. By instilling these values, we help build a society where everyone works hard for their achievements without favouritism or prejudice, “she added.
