He Calls Me...

“All animals are equal but some are more equal than others.” Although Orwell was referring more directly to politics, specifically communism, gender politics is still of huge importance for us today.  I wouldn’t count myself as a ‘burn your bra’ feminist but I do believe EVERYONE regardless of race, religion, sexual orientation or gender has the basic human right to be treated with respect and shown love. On my Facebook timeline this morning I was drawn to two posts that both, in different ways, highlight the extreme inequality women still face with today.   One article was written by Ruby Tandoh (1), a finalist on popular television show Great British Bake Off.  She draws on the amount of criticism she and the other female finalists received in the press and on social media networks. “…there's the broader background of misogyny and gender politics against which this has all played out. It's a culture of frilly baking versus macho Michelin stars, of real chefs versus

Is it right that the majority of parents are penalised for the negative actions of just a few?  I understand the importance of education and, as a teacher have seen parents who apparently care little for their child’s learning and development during formal education.  But is it right that holiday companies can charge more than double the price for a family of four to go away during holiday time? A 2* apartment for a family of four in the ski resort of Les Deux Alpes goes up from £1598 the week before half term to £3358 the week during February half term (1).  This seems to me to be absolutely criminal and punishing people with young families.  Surely, rather than the government giving head teachers the ability to fine parents up to £120 for unauthorised time off school they should be looking at how to tackle this completely unethical price hike aimed specifically at children and teachers?  I understand that there are some parents who allow their children to play truant and do not adhe