THE Roseland Academy had the privilege of hosting Floyd Steadman OBE, the first person of colour to captain a Premiership rugby club.

Engaging students from Years 7 to 10, Mr Steadman delivered a compelling talk on navigating through discrimination, the use of language and the significance of confronting unconscious biases.

He unfolded the chapters of his life from a childhood in care to becoming a trailblazer in English club rugby. He candidly addressed the prejudices he encountered, emphasising that he was often judged solely on the colour of his skin.

Throughout the day, Floyd urged students to look at their own biases and stressed the importance of empathy, understanding and fostering open dialogue to dismantle negative barriers.

Students participated in a Q&A session, and many relished the chance to capture moments with Mr Steadman through personally signed mementos and photographs.

Roseland Academy head Richard Clarke said: "It was an absolute privilege to host Floyd Steadman OBE. He left a real impression on our students and they haven't stopped talking about him since.

“Promoting tolerance and inclusion is something we strongly believe in, and Floyd is an esteemed figure whose life journey serves as a testament to resilience, inclusion and overcoming adversity.”

Mr Steadman kindly donated two signed copies of his autobiography, A Week One Summer, to the school.

"It was a delight to engage with such attentive minds,” he said. “The students’ exemplary behaviour and unwavering focus were a testament to their character and potential.

“I aimed to ignite a spark within them, to cultivate an awareness of unconscious bias and its impact and to foster a culture of kindness and compassion. I trust that they will carry these insights forward on their lifelong learning journeys.”

Year 9 students remarked on how much Mr Steadman’s presentation meant to them. "Mr Steadman's story was truly inspiring,” said one. “It was quite heart-breaking to hear how he was treated by people. Having listened to his story, I look forward to a better future - one that I can help build.”