Ardingly students challenge gender preconceptions at college events

Students were encouraged to challenge their preconceptions and stereotypes by engaging with a series of events.

Georgina Stafford, deputy head academic and head of sixth form, said: “It is during our childhoods and adolescence that our ideas are formed, including our ideas around what we can do, and what others should do.

“The aim of the events was to promote the idea that gender should not be a barrier to either.”

The college hosted a film festival, showing screenings of Kathryn Bigelow’s film Hurt Locker, introduced by the film maker Isis Thompson, as well as Patty Jenkin’s Wonder Woman, introduced by the actor Gabby Wong.

Collections were made for Bloody Good Period, a charity that works closely with some of the most vulnerable women in the UK, including victims of domestic abuse and asylum seekers, to ensure that they have access to free period products. Students donated more than 400 packets of sanitary towels.

Multiple talks and discussion panels were held, including an event with the academic Dr Geraldine Horan, who hosted a discussion over the use of language and the concept of banter in the gender debate.

Nusrat Ghani, Conservative MP for Wealden and the first female Muslim MP to address the House of Commons from the despatch box, talked to students about her experiences in Parliament, and working to develop female education in Afghanistan.

The college also welcomed pupils from 14 nearby primary schools to take part in a series of workshops with leading athletes including Sally Gunnell, Karen Pickering and Tamsin Greenway.

Mrs Gunnell said: “It was thoroughly enjoyable spending the morning at Ardingly College, training with the school’s sportswomen and then being part of their panel discussions.  

“One of the issues young women face is the importance of confidence. Girls should believe they can succeed in sport – or in anything they set their minds to.

“Ardingly College has some great facilities to offer these sportswomen, so they have the very best start on their way to succeeding in whatever field they choose.”