Anne Frank Creative Writing Award 2020

Over lockdown, Miss Hollingsworth's Year 8 (now Year 9) class discussed, explored, and wrote about prejudice and discrimination and how we can help mould a future free from divisions.

Caitlin wrote a sensitive, thoughtful and thought-provoking piece titled ‘It's Called Being a Girl’ and we are thrilled to share that it has been recognised and commended by the judging panel!

It's Called Being a Girl

We are scared to leave the house at night
We are scared to wear short shorts or low tops
If we wear makeup we’re called fake
If we don’t we’re called ugly

We are scared to leave the house at night
We are scared to a tight dress or a sports bra
If we’re a size four we’re told we’re too skinny
If we aren’t we’re told we’re too fat

We are scared to leave the house at night
We are scared to wear ripped jeans or short tops
If we wear shorts to school we’re told it will distract the boys
If they don’t wear a shirt it’s because they're too warm

We are scared to leave the house at night
We are scared to wear heels or off-the-shoulder tops
If we have a child we lose 4% of our salary
If a man does they gain 6% of their salary

We are scared to leave the house at night
We are scared to wear joggers or an oversized hoodie
If we are pale we are called a ghost
If we are tanned we’re called an orange

But the worst part is that when a man asks why,
They only thing we have to say is…‘It’s called being a girl.

Caitlin, Year 8