Access to a fulfilling education for girls and young women is an intrinsic human right, however, not all girls receive the same level of education around the world. 

At Newhaven College, this does not go unnoticed as the College’s female population appreciates the privileges that an intensive and holistic education can provide.

On Friday March 8, the College celebrates International Women's Day, by shedding light on the transformative impact that educated girls can have on a global scale.

Year 12 student Tilia Pires-Andersen has a strong passion for STEM subjects and urges girls to take up subjects in science and maths.

“International Women’s Day offers a chance for me to see the women I admire get the recognition they deserve, in a society where they have been systematically underrepresented,” Tilia says.

“It is a reminder of the constant achievements of women, specifically women in leadership, and an inspiration for me. School is a place for opportunity, and I think we should take advantage of everything that school provides us with, as these are things that will actively benefit our future.”

College students are taught about the value of education and how to embrace all the opportunities they are given. No matter what gender, all students are provided with an open-minded, progressive appreciation for learning, sharing knowledge and embracing challenges.

After 42 years of teaching, Art Teacher and local artist, Sian Adnam thinks back to when girls were not even encouraged to surf, let alone speak up in class.

“At co-educational schools, girls can be overlooked and overwhelmed by the presence of boys. IWD focuses on girls using their voice and being given the opportunities to do that.”

When asked what IWD means to her, Lucinda Schenk, an enthusiastic member of the College’s Learning Support team, reflected that the day provides “time to reflect and acknowledge amazing women who have demonstrated incredible accomplishments, celebrating their bravery and strength”.

The College certainly emphasises the achievements of girls and boys alike, seeing many of the College’s dux and highest achievers being girls over the past few years.

Newhaven College Careers Advisor, Anthea Bennett, said that 20 years ago when she started teaching, “the opportunity for women in leadership roles was non-existent”.

“Significant change and progress has been made over the years and the landscape has certainly changed with women in leadership.”

This is true at Newhaven College, where the College Board and the Leadership teams are populated with an equal balance of women and men. This was not the case just a few years ago. Women being in a position of power and mentorship normalises this to the College’s staff and students. If you see it, you can be it.

Final words to all women and girls from Anthea Bennett: “Be courageous, take opportunities and back yourself” and from Tilia: “Make use of every single opportunity you are given, and keep supporting girls around you, as we are in this together.”

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