ATTFE College welcomed over 80 guests on Thursday 5 March 2026 for an inspiring community celebration of International Women’s Day (IWD) at Ashfield Rugby Club. The event brought together local leaders, community partners, learners, volunteers, and residents for an afternoon dedicated to empowerment, achievement, and opportunity.
The 2026 global theme, ‘Give To Gain’, encouraged attendees to reflect on how supporting and investing in women contributes to a more equal and thriving society. Complementing this, the United Nations theme, ‘Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls’, highlighted the need to remove barriers that limit women’s opportunities and access to justice. Together, these themes framed an event that celebrated progress while acknowledging the work still to be done.
A Warm Welcome and Community Spirit
Guests were greeted at midday with networking and a buffet prepared by ATTFE College catering learners. IWD cupcakes from Butterfly Bakery and table decorations created by learners from ATTFE College’s Evolve Alternative Provision added a personal and creative touch, reflecting the community spirit at the heart of the event.
Inspiring Speakers and Stories
Throughout the afternoon, attendees were inspired by a diverse line-up of speakers from leadership, sport, creativity, and community development:
- Theresa Hodgkinson, CEO of Ashfield District Council, opened the event with insights on women in leadership and the importance of representation.
- Sporting legends included 85-year-old Enid Bakewell MBE, a Kirkby-in-Ashfield native and Women’s England Cricket legend, alongside current Blaze Cricketers Liv Baker and Michaela Kirk, who shared stories of resilience, teamwork, and dedication in sport.
- Emma Hancock from Mill Waters spoke about the Women Outdoors Project, while Katie Mills of Kinver Business Solutions highlighted women’s contributions to construction and local asset improvement.
- Creative inspiration was offered by Ione Vaughan from Ashfield Creates, and guests enjoyed a musical performance by Eden Holmes.
Celebrating Volunteers and Community Champions
The event also honoured ATTFE College’s female volunteers, including contributors from Butterfly Bakery and Community Stars Volunteers, whose efforts enrich the College’s impact across the community.
A special Golden Whistle presentation was made to Debbie Aspinall, recently retired from Greenwood Primary School, recognising her work inspiring thousands of children, young people, and adults to engage in school and community sport across Ashfield.
Reflections on the Day
ATTFE College Principal, Liz Barrett OBE DL, said:
“International Women’s Day reminds us that when women are supported, encouraged, and given the opportunity to thrive, entire communities benefit. At ATTFE College, we are committed to breaking down barriers and creating pathways that allow women and girls to see their potential, believe in it, and pursue it. Today’s event celebrates not only what has been achieved, but what we can continue to achieve—In this together.”
Carol Hallam, Community Engagement and Learning Lead at ATTFE College, added:
“We are delighted to mark International Women’s Day with this special event. It offered a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the work ATTFE College and our stakeholders do to support women and girls in our community, while reflecting on what more we can do together to inspire the next generation.”
A Global Celebration with Local Impact
International Women’s Day has grown from early labour movements into a major global event recognised by the United Nations. The 2026 themes emphasise investment in education, leadership, and economic empowerment for women while challenging harmful norms and discriminatory policies. These priorities align strongly with ATTFE College’s mission to support women and girls through education, community engagement, and lifelong learning.