HMT Empire Windrush began sailing in 1930. It was originally used as a cruise ship and passenger liner. However, during the Second World War, she was used as a troopship. At first, she was used to transport German troops from country to country but was then taken over by the British Army to carry British soldiers. One of Empire Windrush’s most famous journeys was in 1948. After many young men and women lost their lives during World War II, Britain had a shortage of workers and needed more labourers. The British government invited people from Jamaica and other British colonies to come and work in the UK. Therefore, the Empire Windrush was sent to collect 492 people from Jamaica and bring them back to London. These people worked in industries such as transport, rail and the National Health Service. Although many of them only planned to stay for a few years, the majority stayed in the UK permanently and have been a huge influence in changing British culture.
Sadly, life wasn’t always easy for the new arrivals. Many were treated unfairly by white British people and they even found it difficult to find basic things such as somewhere to live. In 1959, an annual carnival was started in Notting Hill, London as a celebration of people’s differences. It continues to bring people from various communities together to this day and is famous for its vibrant colours and exotic dances.
Did You Know…? People living in the Caribbean saw an advert in a newspaper offering them passage to Britain and promising them work once they got there.

 
Now watch this video for more information:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/newsround/48638418

You can choose one task to complete, or more if you want to!
Task 1: Create a postcard to describe what it was like for someone who came to Britain from the Caribbean.
Task 2: Create a poster explaining why Windrush is still important today.
Task 3: Complete an acrostic poem about Windrush.

Use this poem below ‘Windrush Child’ by John Agard to help you if you’d like to.