The brother of Stephen Lawrence, who was murdered in a racially motivated attack in south-east London in 1993, was a special guest today at Haberdashers’ Monmouth Schools.

The Right Honorable, Stuart Lawrence, took part in an Inclusivity and Awareness Day organised by Year 9 pupils India, 13, and Ojas, 14.

Mr Lawrence is now a youth engagement specialist and the author of the best-selling book, Silence is Not an Option.

Mr Lawrence proved an inspirational figure at the pupil-led workshop-and-activity day that promoted an awareness and understanding of inclusivity and racial equality.

The event, for Year 9 pupils at Monmouth School for Boys and Monmouth School for Girls, included workshops on embracing neurodiversity; harassment and offensive jokes; and positive masculinity, social media and body image.

“I spoke to the whole of Year 9 about race, equality and diversity and how difference is something to be celebrated,” said Mr Lawrence.

“Contributions of people from diverse backgrounds can often be overlooked, so it’s important to have a better understanding of these people.

“Events like this are important because they allow students to talk and ask questions.

“When we encourage young people to explore, develop and interact with each other, it allows us all to grow.

“Race, equality and diversity are difficult topics to discuss but we all need a better understanding of them and a responsibility to take an active part in addressing them.”