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Challenging Misogyny and Promoting Equality: Westbourne School Becomes a White Ribbon School

At Westbourne School, we believe in fostering a culture of respect, equality and empowerment, values that are more important than ever in today’s world. With conversations around misogynistic ideology becoming increasingly urgent, particularly following the release of Netflix’s drama Adolescence, we recognise the critical role that schools play in shaping young minds and challenging harmful narratives.

Becoming a White Ribbon School

To strengthen our commitment to tackling misogyny and promoting gender equality, we are proud to announce that Westbourne School has officially become a White Ribbon School – a significant step in reinforcing our stance against violence and discrimination against women and girls. Led by our Designated Safeguarding Lead, Sam Glover, this initiative is part of a broader effort to educate and empower our pupils to challenge gender-based stereotypes and behaviours.

“Becoming a White Ribbon School is more than just a title, it’s a commitment to real change. Over the coming months, we will be rolling out a range of initiatives to educate our pupils, challenge harmful attitudes, and create a culture where everyone feels safe and valued. This is about long-term impact.” 

Sam Glover, Designated Safeguarding Lead

The White Ribbon is a global symbol of the campaign to encourage men and boys to take a stand against male violence towards women and girls. By becoming a White Ribbon Supporter, Westbourne School has pledged to:

• Encourage people to wear a White Ribbon and make the White Ribbon Promise to never use, excuse, or remain silent about men’s violence against women.
• Ensure at least one person in the organisation becomes a White Ribbon Ambassador or Champion.
• Hold an awareness-raising event each year (and fundraising if appropriate).
• Show our support by displaying the White Ribbon badge on our website, email signatures, and in public places.
• Mark White Ribbon Day (25th November) annually.
• Have policies and guidelines in place to protect staff and support those who experience harassment, abuse, or violence.
• Ensure people know where to get help and support by sharing information amongst staff, through signage, and online.

These actions are already being considered by children in the Equality Forum and by Westbourne staff in the EDIB (Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging) forum.

Why This Matters More Than Ever

The influence of social media and pop culture on young people cannot be underestimated. Dramas like #Adolescence highlight the concerning rise of misogynistic rhetoric, making it crucial for schools to challenge these narratives early and provide pupils with the tools to think critically, act responsibly, and treat others with respect.

At Westbourne, we believe in open conversations, proactive education, and a whole-school approach to fostering a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. Becoming a White Ribbon School is just one of the many ways we are ensuring that Westbourne remains a place where equality, respect, and kindness thrive.

Over the coming months, we will be rolling out these initiatives and keeping you updated.

The latest update is that we are delighted to announce the appointments of Lily and Max as Westbourne School's White Ribbon Champion and Ambassador, respectively. These pivotal roles underscore Westbourne School's unwavering commitment to the vital White Ribbon campaign.

Mr Glover extends his sincere thanks to all the pupils who applied, their exceptional engagement making the selection process wonderfully challenging. We eagerly anticipate supporting Lily, Max, and the entire team as they champion this profoundly important initiative within our school community and beyond.