Teaching union to launch resource on challenging misogyny in schools

Scotland’s largest teaching union is developing a new resource aimed at tackling misogyny in schools.

The Educational Institute of Scotland (EIS) has created a programme titled Many Good Men: Changing The Story About Online Misogyny, which includes a pack for teachers alongside classroom-based activities.

The materials are based on participatory theatre projects run by Civic Digits, a group which explores issues including misogyny, mental health and masculinity.

The union said the use of fictional characters in the scenarios will help young people in late secondary school and college settings to engage with difficult and sensitive topics.

The Scottish Government has welcomed the initiative, stating there is no place for misogyny in schools.

EIS general secretary Andrea Bradley said: “Every young person deserves to be safe, to be themselves and to flourish.

“Unfortunately, their ability to do so can be negatively impacted by misogyny.

“The influence of online spaces and algorithms is enabling the rapid spread of content that aims to perpetuate rigid gender stereotypes and justify harmful attitudes.”

EIS president Adam Sutcliffe said: “With rising violence and aggressive behaviours towards women workers, and with more and more women and girls feeling unsafe due to sexism, and boys and men under significant pressure to uphold misogynistic attitudes, a shift is urgently needed.

“These topics can be difficult to talk about, and learners can feel vulnerable, embarrassed or even withdrawn if asked to share their own experiences or opinions.

“Educational approaches that use fictional characters can open up the space for discussion and for exploring difficult topics and ideas, empowering learners to imagine how they might change the story.”

A Scottish Government spokeswoman said: “The Scottish Government welcomes this initiative from the EIS.

“There is no place for misogyny in Scotland’s schools.

“We all want our schools to be safe places for children and young people to learn and for teachers and staff to work.

“Last year the Scottish Government published guidance on responding to gender-based violence in schools.

“This guidance was developed in partnership with a range of stakeholders including women’s organisations, trade unions and education representatives.”

The government added that teachers have flexibility to use their professional judgement to choose topics which meet the needs of children and young people.