Ms Forde features in Stella Magazine - Nov 2017

I was honoured to be asked to do a shoot for @stellamagazine on fashion in the workplace.  The magazine had specifically asked for a woman of colour and I am keen to represent whenever I can and to be a role model for not only my own children but also the students at my school. I also think it is important to promote BAME Headteachers who currently make up a mere 3% of Headteachers nationally.

There is a lot of pressure on young women to look a particular way, driven by social media, many girls are competing against a make believe world of photoshopping and airbrushing.  However, at Copthall many of our students are working hard to spread the message of remaining true to their authentic selves by celebrating their individualities.   Some of my Year 10 students had spoken so eloquently at a Jack Petchy SpeakOut challenge, really highlighting that it does not matter if you are tall, short, big or small.  They were keen to convey that it  really is what you say and do that counts, and not what you look like.

I was able to reiterate this in the article by also saying that no one is perfect and whilst it took me a while to get there, I have grown to love my body and wear clothes that I feel comfortable in.    

Role modelling, body image, professional wear, BAME Headteachers - strong messages from @Copthall school!