Government urged to tackle sexual harassment in schools

New research from the National Education Union and UK Feminista shows that the sexual harassment of girls in schools is widespread, with over a third of girls at mixed-sex schools saying they have been sexually harassed.

The report is being launched today (12 December) in the Houses of Parliament, with speakers including Women and Equalities Committee chair Maria Miller MP and fellow committee member Gavin Shuker MP.

The study reveals sexist language and gender stereotypes are a typical feature of school culture, contributing to a climate in which sexual harassment is commonplace.

According to the research, 66 per cent of female students and 37 per cent of male students in mixed-sex sixth forms have experienced or witnessed the use of sexist language in schools.

In addition, over a third (34 per cent) of primary school teachers say they witness gender stereotyping in their schools on at least a weekly basis.

Sixty-four per cent of teachers in mixed secondary schools also state that they hear sexist language in schools on at least a weekly basis.

A total of 1,508 students and 1,634 teachers were questioned about their experiences and views on sexism in schools.

The report calls on the government to take urgent steps to tackle sexism and sexual harassment in schools. This includes issuing national guidance to schools on how to prevent and respond effectively to sexual harassment and sexual violence, and ensuring teachers receive the necessary training, resources and support to develop a whole school strategy for tackling sexism – from the early years in primary schools through to secondary schools.

Kevin Courtney, joint general secretary at the National Education Union, said: “This study finds sexism is an issue affecting every school and college. Our study reveals that we must address the gender stereotypes and the ideas about men and women that lead to such prevalent levels of sexual harassment.

“As we come to the end of 2017, we’ve lived through a year in which sexual harassment of women and girls has been at the forefront of the public eye. This study shows us how normalised and pervasive it is for young people also.

“Sexual harassment and regular sexist remarks are patterns that most girls and young women come to view as ‘normal’. This sets up expectations about peer relationships and gender which can lead to real harm for girls’ and boys’ self-confidence and aspirations about life.”