The Institute of Physics calls for stricter policies on the use of sexist language in schools

Last week it was reported that the Institute of Physics (IoP) are calling for the use of sexist “banter” to be taken more seriously in schools, arguing that the government and schools need to create policies that punish those who use sexist language. After talking to staff and young people in 10 schools across England, the IoP have released their guide ‘Opening Doors’ which urges policies to be put in place to stop children from using sexist language at school when talking to teachers and peers, and for teachers to reflect on their own language to ensure they are “not inadvertently transmitting negative messages”. Many of the schools did say that there are policies in place to deter individuals from the use of such language, but teachers are unclear as of when these should be actioned. The IoP have claimed that the use of sexist language against a child can affect their confidence, and create gender stereotypes, impacting on the subjects that children go on to study. This is something that we looked at in a blog last month, to read more about gender stereotyping of subjects click here… The IoP have called for each school to have a “gender champion” who ensures that sexist language is taken as seriously. We will be keeping a close eye to see what policies are created from this report. Read more on this here…