Lewisham College recently welcomed LoudSpeaker to campus to deliver a series of impactful Cheese + Pickle sessions, encouraging learners to engage in open and honest conversations about respect, boundaries and healthy relationships.
The sessions focused on how everyday language, attitudes and peer behaviour can influence college culture. Through discussion and interactive activities, learners explored how harmful behaviours, including how misogyny can appear in subtle ways, can affect others, and why challenging these behaviours is essential to creating a safe and inclusive learning environment.
A central theme of the workshops was personal responsibility. Learners were encouraged to reflect on the role they each play in shaping a positive college culture built on accountability and mutual respect. The sessions explored what healthy relationships look like in practice, helping learners develop a clearer understanding of boundaries and the importance of treating others with dignity.
The role of the bystander was also explored in depth. Learners discussed how to challenge inappropriate behaviour safely and gained greater confidence in knowing when and where to seek support if they, or someone they know, experience harassment or inappropriate conduct.
Delivered in LoudSpeaker’s distinctive, high-energy style, the sessions created a supportive space where learners felt able to engage with sensitive topics, ask questions and share perspectives. The interactive approach ensured strong engagement throughout, reinforcing the message that positive culture change begins with conversation.
The sessions were delivered by Rich from LoudSpeaker, whose engaging and relatable delivery resonated strongly with learners and prompted thoughtful reflection.
“It’s been fantastic to be back at Lewisham College, a college I’ve visited many times,” said Rich. “This topic is close to our hearts. LoudSpeaker is about encouraging young people to be the best versions of themselves, and these sessions help people better understand how others experience society, particularly how women experience it. That understanding is incredibly powerful.”
By hosting sessions such as Cheese + Pickle, Lewisham College continues to demonstrate its commitment to supporting learners’ personal development alongside their academic studies. Through open discussion and education, the College is helping to build a respectful, inclusive and supportive community where learners can thrive both in and beyond the classroom.
