It is not acceptable that gender inequality be perpetuated under the guise of religion.

Published 13 October 2017

The Women’s Equality Party welcomes today’s decision from the court of appeal that the complete segregation of education is contrary to the 2010 equality act. It is not acceptable that gender inequality be perpetuated under the guise of religion, whatever the religion and we are pleased that the ruling acknowledges Christian and Jewish schools will also be affected.

We want to particularly acknowledge and commend the work done by Southall Black Sisters in drawing attention to this case and making important submissions to it. 

While these schools can now be marked down by Ofsted, across the education system not enough is done to promote gender equality. The Women’s Equality Party believes all schools should conduct a gender audit of their curriculum to ensure they are not reinforcing harmful gender stereotypes in society.