Shiplake's Inspirational Women

Friday 8 March marked International Women’s Day and in the days leading up to this day, pupils and have staff have got involved in an array of activities and events to celebrate this important event. In today’s article, we look back at all that has happened. 

IWD lands within Women’s History Month, a month that celebrates the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women throughout society. It also provides an opportunity to look forward and to reflect on the work that still needs to be done to achieve gender parity. The theme of this year’s IWD Inspire Inclusion which emphasise the importance of diversity and empowerment not just in the present day, but for generations to come.  

‘When we inspire others to understand and value women's inclusion, we forge a better world. And when women themselves are inspired to be included, there's a sense of belonging, relevance, and empowerment.’ (IWD, 2024) 

In our Whole College Assembly on Monday 4 March, Year 12 pupil Ben Stokes gave a powerful speech in which he talked about some of the inspirational women in his life, as well as the importance of IWD in today’s world. He said:  

‘On International Women's Day, let us celebrate the incredible achievements of women and stand up against gender bias and inequality. Let us honour the women in our lives who have made a difference and continue to inspire us. Together, we can create a world where women are empowered to achieve their dreams and reach their full potential.’ 

As well as talking about well-known figures such as Rosa Parks and Amelia Earhart, Ben also spoke of inspirational women in his life – his mother, sister, and grandmother. Ben’s full speech can be read in a separate news article.  

In Lower School’s weekly House Assembly on Wednesday 6 March, the Lower School staff spoke to the pupils about some of their inspirational women. From Simone Biles, Fran Kirby, Keira Knightley and Malala Yousafzai to Rosalind Franklin, Grace Hopper, Frida Kahlo and Florence Nightingale; they were all brilliant examples of how these amazing women have made an impact in their respective fields and a great opportunity to celebrate their achievements. Following this, Lower School was asked to send in their nominations for the most inspirational women they know with Year 7 pupil Stan Ashcroft saying: 

‘The Nurses in medical wing are my group of amazing people that help anyone and everyone from students to teachers. From coughs to colds, the nurses help us all therefore I think they should be mentioned.’ 

Our Lower School girls, as were all female staff, were then invited to Gilson House’s Assembly on Friday 8 March. The Assembly began with a short, inspirational video message from former Team GB athlete and gold medallist Denise Lewis. Pupils then took it in turns to speak about some of the inspirational women in their lives. It was extremely touching to hear about figures including mothers and friends however, it was Year 13’s Chrissie Baxter who stole the show when speaking about how Mrs Rickard, the College’s Exams Officer, has been inspirational to her over the last year and a half.  

The Assembly concluded with a group photo of our Lower School girls, Gilson girls, and female staff. In previous years, the photo has consisted of our staff and senior pupils and so it was wonderful to welcome the first cohort of Year 7 girls to our group of inspirational girls!