Lent Term Dialogues conclude with inspiring talk from zoologist Lucy Cooke

Our Lent Term Dialogues series concluded with a visit from the fantastic Lucy Cooke.

We were so lucky to welcome Lucy, an award-winning zoologist, broadcaster and writer, to Shrewsbury to engage in a critical dialogue about Darwin's legacy.

Lucy spoke about her book 'Bitch: What does it mean to be female?', drawing on innumerable examples of 'evolution's rainbow' in the natural world.  She highlighted the work of several scientists working to address patriarchal bias within science, especially in relation to power, dominance and sexuality.

Pupils, staff and guests from our community were treated to unique footage from Lucy's work around the globe, including the weird and wonderful world of the naked mole rat, post menopausal orca whales, and female-female albatross nesting couples.

She taught us about the importance of intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and absolute persistence in the face of injustice.  True scientific enquiry, she concluded, will often blow stereotypes apart.

The audience were treated to an extended Q&A with Lucy and an opportunity to buy a signed copy of her books.  A wonderful time was had by all.

Emma Hellyer

Head of Teaching and Learning