Gender equality was top of the agenda at a series of workshops led by young people, for young people.

Sixth formers from Bryanston and the Blandford School led a series of special events for more than 75 pupils from nine neighbouring prep and primary schools.

The workshops were part of the 2023 Nurturing Equality Festival held at Bryanston.
Organised in collaboration with gender equality specialists, Bold Voices, the full-day event featured a range of activities designed to encourage awareness about the importance of gender equality and the need to recognise how the casual use of stereotypes can be self-limiting and destructive.

All 28 of the sixth-form ambassadors received support and guidance from Bold Voices before the festival.

According to Oli Nicholson, Bryanston’s equality, diversity and inclusion lead, the event provided a fun and light-hearted opportunity for younger children to share and discuss their thoughts on the serious topic of gender equality.

“Everyone has a role to play in helping to consign gender stereotypes to history,” he said.

“It was clear the comments and experiences of older pupils resonated with our young audience and we’re delighted with the positive and enthusiastic reaction to the various workshops and discussion groups.”

Year 6 children from nine schools within the Blandford Schools Network attended the festival, including Archbishop Wake CofE Primary School, Blandford St Mary, Bryanston Prep, Downlands Community School, Dunbury, Durweston CE Primary School, Milldown, Pimperne Primary and Spetisbury.

“It was great to hear both young boys and girls recognise how the casual use of words and pigeon holes can so easily reinforce the barriers and behavioural issues associated with gender stereotypes.

“Simply recognising and challenging descriptions before they move to a senior school represents a big step forward as it helps youngsters to develop their self-confidence, interests and personalities without feeling constrained by any misplaced preconceptions.”

Natasha Eeles, founder of Bold Voices, said: “It was a joy to run the festival with the schools. Bringing together pupils to learn and talk openly about gender inequality is a hugely impactful approach for all involved.

“Seeing the openness and curiosity of the Year 6s to learn about and challenge gender inequality inspires hope that we have a new generation growing up who are ready to experience a world that is free from gender stereotypes and inequality.”