Commenting following the Labour Party’s proposals to tackle the impact of online misogyny and sexual harassment in schools, Dr Patrick Roach, General Secretary of NASUWT-The Teachers’ Union, said:

“We know from reports from members, our casework and previous research that sexual harassment and sexist abuse towards both female teachers and pupils in schools and colleges is commonplace and that the majority of incidents fail to be reported or dealt with effectively.

“We welcome the commitment to tackling the many forms of misogyny and supporting effective practice in schools.  This must also include equipping schools to confront sexism and misogyny in the curriculum.

“Women and girls have a right to be afforded safety, security and respect at all times. We need greater transparency and a climate that encourages unacceptable behaviours to be reported in the confidence that action will be taken.

“Sexism and misogyny have no place in our schools and colleges and it is vital that every action that can be taken is taken to stamp out such abuse.

“The full force of the law must be applied, ensuring that misogyny is recognised as a hate crime and that it will be dealt with accordingly.”