Young male teachers absent from nurseries
Katy Morton
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
There are no male teachers under the age of 25 working in nursery schools, according to this year's annual census published by the General Teaching Council (GTC).
Data from the GTC register of teachers show a 5 per cent drop in the number of male nursery school teachers registered and in service since last year.
The GTC found eight males under 25 working in nursery schools in 2004, six in 2005, one in 2006 and none in 2007-2008.
Margaret Edgington, independent early years consultant, said, 'The men who are working in early years sometimes comment that it is difficult being part of a predominantly female workforce and that they worry that people are suspicious of their motives in wanting to work with young children.
'I meet men who love their work and have a great deal to offer early years. I believe young children miss out if they are only cared for and educated by members of half the population'.
She added, 'Male early years practitioners can provide a positive model of being a learner for both boys and girls. I think more needs to be done to attract young men to the profession.'
For more information visit www.gtce.org.uk/annualstatistics.
