Students engage, learn and reflect during powerful Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls events

New City College students came together to mark the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls (EVAWG), 16 days of action, taking part in a programme of impactful events that encouraged learning, reflection and open discussion.

Despite addressing challenging and sensitive topics, students engaged with maturity and confidence as they explored issues including domestic abuse, forced marriage, personal safety and unhealthy relationships.

Through talks, workshops, creative activities and information fairs, the learners, mostly aged between 16 and 18 years, gained a deeper understanding of the global 16 Days of Action campaign and how they can support themselves and others.

Across all campuses – Redbridge, Epping Forest, Tower Hamlets, Hackney, Attlee Academy, Hackney Sixth Form, Havering Sixth Form, Ardleigh Green and Rainham – visiting organisations, charities and specialist speakers helped create safe, informative spaces where students felt empowered to ask questions, share reflections and access support.

At Ardleigh Green Campus, student engagement stood out. Interactive activities and discussion boards quickly filled with thoughtful reflections, personal insights and sensitive contributions on complex topics regarding violence against women. Students approached each activity with empathy and respect, underlining the importance of creating space for these conversations within education.

A highlight of the event was a powerful guest speaker session from Rhianna Noble, founder of Rhianna Speaks, who shared her personal experiences and advocacy work. Her session resonated with students, who listened attentively and asked considered questions.

Rhianna praised the Ardleigh Green learners, describing them as the most mature and engaged audience she has spoken to across colleges and sixth forms nationwide.

Lead Pastoral Tutor Natasha Bryce said: “These events are crucial to ensure our students are informed and aware. Their engagement with all the visitors and activities was outstanding and shows the strength of the community we are building.”

Rainham Construction and Engineering Campus, where the majority of learners are male, also saw exceptional student involvement. They got involved in self-defence workshops, awareness activities and discussion-based sessions, demonstrating thoughtfulness and emotional intelligence as they asked questions and contributed to conversations around safety, abuse and personal experiences.

The self-defence workshop was a particular highlight, equipping students with practical skills while boosting confidence. Discussion boards again became a focal point, fostering meaningful dialogue and, in some cases, disclosures – highlighting the trust students place in the supportive environment created by the college.

Guest speakers Payzee Mahmod and Rhianna Noble, shared their personal journeys and answered questions from students at the end. Both speakers praised the students’ attitude and the work being done at New City College.

Natasha added: “Our students at Rainham demonstrated exceptional maturity and empathy. The event not only raised awareness but also reinforced the importance of creating spaces where young people feel safe to speak up and seek support on certain issues.”

At Hackney Sixth Form Campus and across the wider college, students participated in a range of activities including healthy relationship workshops, creative tote bag making, lecture-style talks from the National Centre of Domestic Violence, and information fairs with specialist organisations. These sessions helped students to understand support that is available and to build confidence in seeking help.

The EVAWG events not only raised awareness of a critical issue but also empowered students with knowledge, resources and the confidence to engage in difficult conversations.