Challenging casual stereotyping, racism and other forms of social inequalities were the focus at SSV this week during a vibrant and educational Equality Week event.
Starting on Wednesday 15 March, each day tackled a specific theme, notably:
- Equality
- Sustainability
- Identity
- Race and Ethnicity
- Justice and
- Gender
Challenging themes indeed! However, each one was organised brilliantly by Student Leaders and Assistant Headteacher for Student Leadership, Ms Smith.
As Ms Smith explains in her blog (see link below), Equality Week was borne about after an inappropriate joke was overheard and subsequently challenged by a BSN sixth former. The BSN believes in equipping our students with skills and confidence to not only make these challenges when needed but to also make a difference and turn negatives into learning opportunities. And they did just that!
The Atrium was full of engaging activities that were fun, but with strong messages behind them. For example, during Gender day, students wrote on gender specific figures the typical stereotypes that are often associated with males and females. Phrases such as "Man up!" for men and "Can't work with ICT" or "Make me a sandwich" for women emphasised the unfair pressures society places upon both genders.
There were other events throughout the week including lively inter-school debate between The BSN and The American School in the Hague. It was great to see it so well supported.
Our Student Leaders should feel very proud for organising what has to be a highlight in the SSV calendar.
