'It's about calling it out': How teachers in Leeds are tackling misogyny in the classroom
Teachers are leading the fight back against misogyny in the classroom
The rise of online influencers accused of promoting sexist views has left schools on the frontline of a growing battle against misogyny.
And this week, schools in Leeds will look at how they challenge the issue with a no-nonsense message: “this is not acceptable”.
Teachers from schools across the city will be given the tools to understand, challenge and respond to poor behaviour in the classroom.
Among the speakers will be staff from Benton Park School, in Rawdon, which is one of only two schools in the country last year to receive a gold award from UK Feminista for its work tackling sexism and sexual harassment.
Allana Howard, assistant headteacher and designated safeguarding lead at the school, said: “We’ve been addressing misogyny and sexual harassment and violence towards women and girls for the past few years, as it was becoming an issue nationally.
“It’s about giving students the confidence to recognise these behaviours and call them out.
“ They know this is not normal or acceptable, treating girls this way - it’s not how they should be behaving.
“It’s something that’s constantly part of our narrative – they’re taught it every year they’re with us.”
The event has been organised by Leeds City Council’s children and families service in partnership with West Yorkshire Violence Reduction Partnership (WYCRP).
Coun Helen Hayden, Leeds City Council’s executive member for children and families, said: “This event sees Leeds taking positive and innovative action to tackle what is a growing issue that teachers are facing in classrooms across the UK.
“Misogyny is utterly abhorrent and has no place in our society. We must do all we can to empower children and young people to develop healthy, respectful relationships throughout their lives – and that discussion needs to start at an early age.
“We want to support schools and help give staff the tools they need to ensure our learning environments are safe and supportive and a place where everyone feels equal and valued.”
West Yorkshire’s Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime, Alison Lowe OBE, added: “Challenging misogyny early is vital to building safer, fairer communities, which is why we established the first Women’s Safety Unit here in West Yorkshire.
“Schools have a critical role to play in our approach and it’s encouraging to see key partners coming together to tackle these issues head on.
“Through our work with the Violence Reduction Partnership, we’re committed to supporting young people to develop positive attitudes and behaviours that last into adulthood.”