Tackling Misogyny in Schools

Misogyny, prejudice or hostility towards women and girls, is not a new issue, but it is one that has become increasingly visible and urgent within schools. Staff report an increase in sexist language and stereotypes a well as harassment and online abuse. Schools are often the frontline where attitudes can be formed as well as being the ideal place for them to be challenged.

The rise of social media and of influencers like Andrew Tate, has led to amplified misogynistic messages, normalising harmful ideas about gender, consent, and relationships. Many young people are exposed daily to sexist content online, often before they’ve had the chance to develop critical thinking skills to question it. This can influence peer interactions, shape attitudes towards women and girls, and contribute to a culture where harassment and discrimination are minimised or ignored.

Schools are also under growing pressure from Ofsted, Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE), safeguarding frameworks, and RSHE (Relationships, Sex and Health Education) guidance to address issues around sexism and sexual harassment. A whole-school approach is vital and one that goes beyond reactive measures to build understanding, empathy, and respect among students.

How Loudmouth Education and Training Can Help

Loudmouth Education and Training has nearly 30 years of experience delivering high-quality, drama-based programmes that address complex social issues in an engaging and age-appropriate way. Our theatre-in-education model uses live performance and interactive workshops to explore challenging subjects, including misogyny, sexual harassment, consent, and healthy relationships.

Through carefully developed scenarios and facilitated discussions, Loudmouth helps students:

• Recognise harmful attitudes and behaviours that underpin misogyny.
• Understand the impact of sexism and harassment on individuals and communities.
• Build empathy with those affected, creating a more respectful school culture.
• Learn practical strategies for challenging harmful behaviour and supporting peers.
• Connect to safeguarding and support pathways, so they know where to go for help.

Sessions are trauma-informed and designed to create emotionally safe environments for learning. Students are encouraged to question, reflect, and take ownership of their behaviour and choices.

Loudmouth provide a range of programmes from Key Stage 2 to Key Stage 4 that gradually deepens students understanding of misogyny and consent. For primary schools our Helping Hands programme introduces consent and recognising unsafe touch and our Screen Time programme looks at sexist attitudes online and on gaming platforms. For secondary schools our A Step Too Far programme introduces an understanding and the impact of harmful sexual behaviours and our Calling it Out programme takes a deeper dive into misogyny and the pressures on male and female students and impact on victims and school culture.

Supporting Schools and Staff

Loudmouth doesn’t just work with students. Their programmes also support teachers and safeguarding leads by:

• Modelling effective language and techniques for discussing sensitive topics.
• Reinforcing curriculum goals within RSHE and safeguarding frameworks.
• Complementing existing school strategies and campaigns around equality, diversity, and inclusion.
• Providing post-session resources and lesson plans to extend learning beyond the performance.

This partnership approach helps schools to create lasting change, embedding respectful attitudes across the whole school community.

A Positive Impact

Schools that have worked with Loudmouth report clear benefits, including improved student understanding of gender equality, increased confidence to challenge sexism, and better alignment with RSHE requirements. The use of drama and discussion brings issues to life in a way that classroom only sessions may struggle to do, making learning both memorable and impactful.

Misogyny can undermine school's work on equality, it can harm students and damage school cultures. Addressing it is essential for schools to ensure that all of their students feel safe and able to achieve. By working with Loudmouth Education and Training, schools can gain memorable support to tackle misogyny proactively and effectively, equipping young people with the knowledge, empathy, and confidence to create a respectful, safe school community for everyone.

To find out more about how Loudmouth can support your school’s RSHE and safeguarding work call us on 0121 446 4880 or email enquiry@loudmouth.co.uk