“We’ve fought to be in this place. We’re still fighting for it. I’m doing it for my parents because they didn’t get the opportunity.”
As part of the University of Reading’s Centenary celebrations, Celebrating Class: Working-Class Identities at Reading looks at the past, present and future of working-class life at the university. The exhibition and conference will bring together archival research, lived experiences and stories to share how class shapes the everyday experiences of our learning community.
Event schedule
- 2nd – 26th February 2026 – Celebrating Class exhibition in the library foyer, bringing together research, stories and experiences to showcase the impact of class on the University of Reading.
- 4th March 2026 – Celebrating Class conference on Whiteknights Campus with a keynote speech from Alex Blower, founder of Boys Impact.
Blog series
Student voice
Below you can find artwork produced by current students from working class backgrounds, which will be compiled in a print resource, to accompany the exhibition.
“Show Your Stripes”
“Code Switching”
“Many students adapt themselves to fit perceived norms. I did it and it became normal to be a completely different person in class. But why? Often, it is out of a need to belong, to avoid negative stereotyping, or to secure opportunities that we think we would not get if we were being our authentic selves.”
Note from the author of ‘Code Switching at University’
Have your say
Please join us in celebrating a hundred years of working-class legacy and achievement at Reading by sharing your point of view.
How could we become a more class inclusive university? (Padlet link)