Women’s History Month takes place in March across the world. This blog delves into the important messaging of Women’s History Month and includes tip for teachers on how to approach this subject in the classroom.

The Significance of Women’s History Month

Originally established as a week-long celebration in the United States in 1981, Women’s History Month expanded to a month-long celebration in 1987 and spread internationally from there, securing its importance in recognising women’s achievements across fields such as politics, science, literature, arts, and social activism. Women’s History Month serves as a catalyst for progress and sparks conversations about gender equality, representation, and the ongoing fight against discrimination and injustice.

Honoring Trailblazers for Women’s History Month

Throughout history, women have defied societal norms and paved the way for future generations. From suffragists like Susan B. Anthony and Emmeline Pankhurst who advocated for women’s right to vote, to civil rights leaders like Rosa Parks, who sparked a movement with her refusal to give up her seat on a bus, these trailblazers challenged the status quo and reshaped the course of history. Their determination is a source of inspiration and reminds us that change is possible even in the face of adversity.

Champions of Equality

The journey towards gender equality has not been without its challenges, but it’s also been marked by the dedication of countless individuals who have championed the cause. Women like Malala Yousafzai, who defied the Taliban’s regime to advocate for girls’ education, and Ruth Bader Ginsburg, whose groundbreaking legal work advanced women’s rights in the United States, stand as symbols of resilience and determination. 

Inspiration and Innovation

From the sciences to the arts, women have been at the forefront of innovation, pushing boundaries and challenging conventions. Figures like Marie Curie, whose groundbreaking research on radioactivity earned her two Nobel Prizes, and Frida Kahlo, whose bold and emotive artwork continues to captivate audiences around the world, demonstrate the power of female creativity and intellect. Their contributions have inspired future generations to pursue their passions without reservation.

Why and How We Should Cover Women’s History in Schools

Championing the topic of Women’s History Month in March is a great way to focus on inclusivity, promote diversity, and empower students with a deeper understanding of the contributions of women throughout history. Yet it is a topic that should also extend beyond March and be integrated into all aspects of your school environment.  Ofsted’s statutory guidance for Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE) highlights the importance of teaching students about stereotypes, prejudice and discrimination within a comprehensive and inclusive RSHE curriculum. Alongside an outstanding RSHE curriculum, there are many other ways we can bring this important topic into schools to normalise the celebration of women’s achievements and continue the fight against discrimination and injustice.

Here are some of our top tips on focusing on Women’s History Month in schools:

Incorporate Diverse Perspectives

Ensure that your curriculum reflects a diverse range of women’s experiences, including those from different cultural, racial, ethnic, and socio-economic backgrounds. Highlighting a variety of stories will provide students with a more comprehensive understanding of women’s history.

Encourage Critical Thinking and Discussion

Encourage students to critically analyse gender roles, stereotypes, and biases present historically and today. Prompt discussions about the challenges women have faced and continue to face, as well as the progress that has been made towards gender equality. Engage students in activities and projects that encourage critical thinking. This could include research projects, presentations, debates, and creative projects inspired by influential women.

Create a Supportive Environment

Foster a supportive and inclusive classroom environment where all students feel valued and respected. Encourage open dialogue and create opportunities for students to share their own perspectives and experiences related to women’s history and also wider issues of discrimination and gender equality. Be prepared to answer challenging questions such as ‘Why is there not a men’s history month’ and make sure you make all students feel involved and included in these lessons.

Cross-Curricular Links

Women’s history is not limited to one subject area. Integrate it across various subjects, including history, English literature, science, art, and music. For example, in history class, students could study the suffrage movement, while in English literature, they could analyse works by female authors.

Highlight Key Figures and Events

Introduce students to influential women throughout history, such as activists, scientists, artists, writers, and political leaders. Use a variety of resources, including biographies and documentaries to bring their stories to life.

Guest Speakers and Trips for Women’s History Month

Invite guest speakers, such as local historians, authors, activists, or women working in STEM fields, to share their expertise and experiences with students. Organise trips to museums, historical sites, or cultural centers that highlight women’s contributions to society.

Student Leadership

Empower students to take ownership of Women’s History Month initiatives by involving them in the planning and implementation process. Encourage them to organise events, lead an assembly or create classroom resources for tutor time. Extending beyond March, encourage your student leaders to discuss equality more widely and how we can support a more inclusive school environment. 

Conclusion

As we celebrate Women’s History Month, we must take the opportunity to honour the women who have shaped our past, celebrate the achievements of those who continue to make history today, and empower the next generation of trailblazers, champions, and innovators. We must also recognise that the fight for gender equality is ongoing and we should continue to focus on supporting inclusivity and fair opportunities for all. 

It’s important that we create opportunities for students to learn about women’s history. However, our efforts should go beyond this singular focus to explore the ongoing issues surrounding discrimination and gender roles. By opening up a space for young people to engage with these topics, we empower them to challenge stereotypes, advocate for equality, and shape a more inclusive future.