The Matthews Society relaunched this term with two meetings that sparked fascinating pupil discussions surrounding gender stereotypes and expectations in society. School House and Round House pupils met separately for their first meetings and will meet as a collective group in January to discuss the ideas and conversations that arose in these two initial sessions.
School House Discussion
In conjunction with International Men’s month, School House explored what it means to be a man; discussing the complexities around what makes a good man versus what society expects of men.
Pupils individually and then collectively answered questions delving into what makes a good man e.g. what do they do? What do they say? What do people mean when they say ‘be a man’ or ‘man up’?
Discussions progressed from these thought-provoking questions onto the impact upon mental health, finding a place in society and prompted the Form 7 pupils to consider the usefulness of role models.
I am sure, most importantly, reflections and conversations will continue beyond the first Matthews Society Meeting
– Alexis Dachtler (Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Coordinator)
Round House Discussion
In a similar style to the School House discussion, Round House pupils met to delve into the stereotypes and expectations of women and the issues that surround them.
The conversation led the pupils to ask what advice they would offer Form 1 and Form 2 pupils inspiring them to think about ways that they can help their younger peers.
It was a powerful discussion sparking reflection and thoughts that will be taken forward beyond of this session.
The lasting thought for me was that societal stereotypes/ expectations have a lot to answer for, regardless of sex/gender. They don’t seem to be serving anyone well.
The Matthews Society offers Form 7 pupils a safe, respectful space to have conversations on subjects that matter to young people. Named after former member of staff Jane Matthews who was the first female member of the School’s Senior Leadership Team, the Matthews Society has been successfully running for 10 years, giving Oakham’s final year pupils an opportunity to discuss issues surrounding gender and identity.
