At Croydon College and Coulsdon Sixth Form College we are extremely proud of all the achievements of our women students, staff, and alumni. Over 100 years ago, the first International Women’s Day gathering took place.

Although since then we’ve witnessed a significant change in attitudes towards equality, it is still more important than ever to raise awareness of gender bias and inequality that still takes place to this day.

The theme of this year’s International Women’s Day 2021 is #ChooseToChallenge by challenging and calling out gender bias and inequality. The Croydon College Executive Team have shown their commitment to choose to challenge by raising their hands:

In addition, we are also focusing the spotlight on four amazing, influential female poets from South London who are leading advocates in their field and championing change, including Shaniqua Benjamin. The poets will recite their pieces in video format in honour of International Women’s Day. Students will be able to access these videos on MOODLE.

Caireen Mitchell, Principal and CEO says: ‘International Women’s Day is not just a chance to celebrate the achievements of women globally and locally, but it’s also a chance to recognise that a gender equal world is far from reality. We mark International Women’s Day by reaffirming our commitment to playing what part we can to address this and so truly make a positive difference for women.’

We believe that by working together and acknowledging our inequalities that we will move forward in setting the agenda for gender and equality, not just across our collegiate but across the whole sector.