Let's hear from the men in childcare

Let's hear from the men in childcare

by: Evie - 30-10-07 21:34

I am currently in the 2nd year of a Foundation Degree in Early Years Childcare and Education and am undertaking a Research Project on why so few men choose a career in childcare.  Any men out there care to share their views??!!

by: Skyenet

Early Years Education and Childcare is a female dominated area so that can be a barrier for males.  I reckon that schools need to encourage males to have a go at Early Years Education if they fancy it and support them going on work experience.  I know quite a few males in my area who got into Early Years edcuation via work experience. As the amount of males in childcare gows then it will feel a more natural career option for young males to take.

RE: RE: Let's hear from the men in childcare - 01-11-07 19:45

by: Evie

Thanks for your prompt response. I have to complete a Research Proposal within the next couple of weeks and then actually carry out the research by February. Would you be interested in answering a short trial questionnaire as part of  a pilot study?

by: Skyenet

Evie

RE: RE: Let's hear from the men in childcare - 14-11-07 15:38

by: Evie

Sorry for the delay - manic week!

10 questions for the pilot study -  

1.  How long have you worked in childcare?

2.  Is this your first careeer? If not, what other careers have you worked in?

3.  What barriers do you feel exist towards men working in childcare?

4.  Are your friends/family supportive regarding your career choice?

5.  If they are not supportive, what are their main objections?

6.  Do you feel there is a clearly defined qualification and career progression structure in place currently?

7.  What factors do you feel would attract more men into working in childcare?

8.  Did the pay and status of Early Years practitioners almost prove a deterrent to you entering this field?

9.  Is it your intention to remain working with children or move into a managerial position within childcare?

 10.  Would you encourage male friends to enter this profession and if so, for what reasons? 

This is the first draft and I propose to circulate this questionnaire to male working in fellow students' settings.

 

Many thanks

 

Evie 

 

 

 

 

by: Skyenet

1.  Experience - 4 years (Voluntary & Placement)

2.  No, Previous Jobs - Air Traffic Control, Aircrew, Fireman, Photographer, Driver, YTS Trainer, ET Trainer, Training Manager, Product Manager, Managing Director IT Training Company. 

3.  Barriers - Being in a minority 

4.  Mostly - Yes

5.  Some - old fashioned stereotyping that its a woman's job

6.  In Scotland Yes

7.  They can genuinely make a difference to young children's lives.  

8.  No

9.  Remain working with children 

10.  Yes, Rewarding Smiles, Fun, Challenging, Interesting, Chance to make a difference.  Open to new ideas.

by: Evie

thank you so much for your time

Evie

by: Margos

Hi Evie,

There are some good organisations that you can contact for info. Have you read the book called Men in Childcare?

See my website for more detaisl www.proceedc.com

All the best Margos