Sport stars help pupils tackle gender stereotypes

"Inspirational" change has been created through assemblies with athletes aimed at tackling sports gender stereotyping at school, teachers and pupils say.

The sessions at La Houguette School have involved athletics, cricket, rugby and football stars speaking to students about the value of playing sport and the importance of ensuring everyone felt included.

Head teacher Claire Judd said the school had definitely seen a change in behaviour during lunch times with girls and boys playing "respectfully with each other".

Pupil Eva said she enjoyed the sessions and as they had taught her to stand up for herself.

"I've learnt to be brave and even if you get hurt, just get back up," Eva said.

"People might think girls aren't really supposed to be doing this, but I'm just brave and I'm doing it anyways.

"If you want to play any games, just ask your mum and dad to do it - it's super nice."

Judd said the idea for the assemblies came after she noticed girls were not getting involved with sports at lunch time.

"The boys were all playing football and the girls were pushed to the side of the field," she said.

"It's really evolved and been brilliant - it's been inspirational."

Alun Williams, an athletics coach who is also the programme's coordinator, said the athletes involved had been "such good role models".

"They really got across all of the messages we wanted them too, because that's what they believe," he said.

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