Ahead of International Women's Day on Saturday 8 March, Lower School Head of Studies Mr Warren Rodricks and History/RS teacher Ms Lauren Stuart delivered assemblies this week reflecting on the importance of equality and respect in the wider community.
In the Senior School, Ms Lauren Stuart, Teacher of RS and History, explored the history and purpose of International Women’s Day, noting that this year marks 115 years since the first celebrations in 1911. Her talk considered the progress that has been made for women’s rights while also acknowledging the inequalities that still exist today. Pupils were encouraged to think about how attitudes are shaped by everyday comments and behaviour, and how small actions such as challenging stereotypes, supporting others and speaking up when something feels unfair can help create a more respectful culture.
In the Prep School, Mr Warren Rodricks, Head of Studies (Reception to the 10s/Year 6) and Teacher of Mathematics, built on the theme of kindness explored in the previous week’s assembly and asked pupils to consider how those values can extend beyond the school community. His presentation included a number of statistics highlighting that inequality between the sexes remains a global issue, from the proportion of women in leadership roles to the time it may take to achieve full gender equality. Pupils were encouraged to reflect on the choices people make and the role everyone can play in supporting fairness and respect.
This year’s International Women’s Day theme, Give to Gain, reflects the idea that progress requires collective effort. When individuals and communities give time, support, encouragement and a voice to women and girls, society as a whole gains greater equality and opportunity. Conversations such as these also link to our Harrodian’s pillars of ambition, curiosity, independence, compassion, resilience and inclusivity, encouraging pupils to think about the role they can play in building a fair and respectful community.
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To read Ms Lauren Stuart's Seniors assembly presentation, please CLICK HERE
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To read Mr Warren Rodrick's Prep assembly presentation, please CLICK HERE