International Women’s Week: Play a part in the change

Posted on: 28 Mar 2025
Posted by: Laurell Milton

Laurell Milton, an English teacher at Dulwich College, explains how the school is promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion through its celebration of events like International Women's Week.

At Dulwich College, global celebrations such as International Women's Week are not merely calendar events; they offer invaluable opportunities to deepen our understanding of the rich diversity within our community. We strive to cultivate a sense of belonging for every student and staff member who joins us. This commitment to inclusivity is interwoven into the very fabric of our school's ethos.

This year, our journey began with Breast Cancer Awareness Month, during which our gender equity prefects organised a successful cake sale, raising essential funds and awareness. We then moved into Movember, a period dedicated to fostering conversations about men's mental health. These initiatives culminated in our vibrant celebration of International Women's Week, a testament to our ongoing dedication to equity, diversity, and inclusion.

In the study of boyology, it is argued that routines and rituals play a crucial role in fostering change. This year, we aimed to continue the theme of changemakers in our school’s celebrations of Black History Month and Pride Month.

From 10 March to 14 March, we observed International Women's Day, a globally recognised occasion that acknowledges women's significant social, economic, cultural, and political contributions. As we engaged in discussions, subject lessons, societies, and general conversations, we sought to critically examine the persistent challenges to gender equality and reaffirm our commitment to female advancement.

The prevailing global discourse highlights the urgent need for accelerated and resolute action to achieve gender parity. At Dulwich College, we remain steadfast in our efforts to dismantle the systemic barriers and biases that hinder women's progress, personally and professionally. While substantial obstacles persist, meaningful progress can be achieved through diligent action and unwavering support.

Our acting master, Fiona Angel, the first female master at the College, launched our International Women’s Week programme, during which we united as a community, embarking on a collective journey of reflection, enlightenment, and empowerment. Throughout the week, we encouraged each student to demonstrate solidarity with the women in our community and contribute to the change we are fostering. The week was a vibrant celebration of female achievement and empowerment, honouring the pioneering women who have significantly advanced their respective fields, thereby paving the way for future generations. We also recognised and commended the men who have served as allies and collaborators.

A key feature was our series of assemblies, during which two career panels comprising influential women from our wider community shared their professional journeys and insights on driving change for women. Sixth formers enjoyed inspiring talks at the chapel assembly and an invaluable pre-UCAS presentation by our local MP and a dedicated teacher. As a school welcoming students aged 2 to 18 years, our Junior School and DUCKS embraced the celebration with dedicated assemblies, wellbeing lessons, and engaging activities, ensuring that even our youngest students grasped the significance of International Women's Day.

A true highlight was the visit from a remarkable 10-year-old chess player, who had earned the title of Woman FIDE Master. Witnessing her compete against ten of our students, winning nine games and drawing one, was an electrifying experience. The atmosphere mirrored the fervent energy of a sports final.

Our staff panel proved to be another resounding success. Tailored for all staff members, this session offered invaluable insights, particularly for our female colleagues. Through five-minute presentations, both male and female teachers addressed crucial topics such as financial fitness, exercise during the menstrual cycle, gendered language, and maternity information. The positive feedback underscored the importance of nurturing a safe space for open dialogue and mutual support.

Our societies were also in full swing, actively demystifying female stereotypes and highlighting women’s contributions to various fields. Discussions extended beyond the classroom; our teachers incorporated the theme into their lessons.

Incorporating these celebrations into our routines and rituals is essential for fostering lasting change. Listening to and including the "third voice" within our school—the views of those often marginalised—has enabled us to design a week that resonates deeply with our community. By organising workshops and sharing knowledge about women and allyship, we create a more inclusive and equitable environment for all. I encourage you to promote open dialogue and establish spaces where diverse voices within your school feel heard and valued.

Above: A Woman FIDE Master competing against students in a game of chess. Right: Staff at Dulwich College taking part in a football match for Movember.

About Laurell Milton

Laurell Milton teaches English at Dulwich College, is a form tutor (Year 11) and is the lead of gender allyship.