. Students researched influential women from a variety of career fields, exploring how their work and determination have contributed to social change, equality, and the advancement of women’s rights.

International Women’s Day is celebrated globally as an opportunity to reflect on the progress that has been made, while also recognising the work that still needs to be done to achieve full gender equality.

As part of the activities at the Upper Academies, students were challenged to find inspirational quotes connected to IWD and research key female figures who have made a significant impact worldwide. They then used their findings to create colourful collages that highlighted these inspiring women and their powerful messages.

Some of the quotes students explored included:

• “I raise up my voice—not so that I can shout, but so that those without a voice can be heard.” – Malala Yousafzai
• “There is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish.” – Michelle Obama
• “Well-behaved women seldom make history.” – Laurel Thatcher Ulrich
• “A woman is like a tea bag—you never know how strong she is until she gets in hot water.” – Eleanor Roosevelt

The activity encouraged students to reflect on the importance of equality, resilience, and empowerment, while celebrating the achievements of women who have helped shape a more equal world. The finished collages were proudly displayed across the academy, highlighting the creativity and thoughtful research completed by our Year 11 students.