Our 'Stronger Together' Campaign highlights misogyny in schools

I wanted to share some quotes from teachers, to highlight how they are made to feel when working in a school, these are real.

Misogyny in schools is alive and kicking and here are some examples

“KS4 boys reacting to being told off with comments such as 'calm down love'. Despite being very experienced and holding a very senior position I have less experienced and less senior male members of staff offering to assist me in dealing with students.” Female Teacher

“ I have had students respect a male saying the same thing I have said but being ignored or belittled or felt intimidated.” Female Teacher

“Student expectations are different for each other.  Boys commenting on the way girls dress and the expectations placed up on girls to conform and act in certain ways.” Teacher

“I have seen male staff members engaging in what would probably be considered low level misogynistic/sexiest/belittling chat or 'banter'. Being called 'girls', or comments similar to 'you need to put your big girl pants on', 'not bad for a woman'. Also actions such as being tossed work/paper across the desk in class, and a pat on the head from a male member of staff.” Female Teacher

“Boys accusing me of picking on them solely based on gender. Treating me differently because I am a young female teacher compared to how they respond to men.” Female Teacher

“The problem is some boys think talking about tackling misogyny and toxic stereotypes is "anti-men" and an attack upon them.” Teacher

 “They [the girls] don't feel they can speak out. This is societal not just our school.” Teacher

“I think some girls do [feel empowered], but not the majority.” Teacher

These are the real voices of teachers. Women working in schools who are being dismissed, undermined, and disrespected not because of their ability, but because of their gender.

Misogyny and sexism are not abstract issues. They play out every day in our classrooms, corridors, and staffrooms.

From "banter" between male colleagues to girls being policed on their appearance, the message is loud and clear: inequality is still deeply rooted and our young people are watching, learning, and repeating these behaviours.

🧠 So what can we do?

At Theatre Inspiring Change, we use live, interactive theatre to challenge attitudes, spark conversation, and open eyes.

Whether it’s addressing gender-based bullying, toxic masculinity, or sexist "banter", our performances go beyond information they create empathy, awareness, and agency. We give young people and staff the space to reflect, question, and most importantly to change.

🌟 We don’t just perform. We provoke thought. We equip schools with tools to create real cultural change. We empower girls to speak up and boys to listen, reflect, and stand up too.

Because this isn’t just about a few bad behaviours. It’s about building a generation that understands respect, equality, and accountability.

💬 If you're a school leader, teacher, or youth worker and you want to make a difference let’s talk.

Together, we can create safer, fairer, more respectful school environments for everyone.