UK’s first Feminism and Teaching Symposium

116/11 In the wake of last weekend's headlines created by David Willetts' comments on feminism and following the sacking earlier this year of two Sky Sports presenters for their sexist comments — the UK's first Feminism and Teaching Symposium will take place this weekend at The University of Nottingham. The two day symposium on April 8 and 9 2011 has been organised by research students at the University who formed the Feminism and Teaching Network three years ago. They have brought together scholars and activists who have in common a concern with the introduction and exploration of feminist ideas in the classroom at all levels, from primary school to university and beyond. One of the organisors, Eva Giraud, said: "One can only wonder what Mr Willetts and similar minded persons would make of an entire academic symposium dedicated to the discussion of teaching and feminism. Our symposium came about as a result of widespread demand from fellow students, academics, teachers and activists who see feminist critique as an indispensible part of education. Through our experiences in the classroom and other places of learning we found that feminist modes of thinking and teaching enlighten and empower learners and educators alike.