More male role models needed in schools

08 Oct 2008

School is the ideal place for young children to learn from good male role models outside of the family, it has been said.

Matthew Mitchell, director of diversity at the TDA, commented: "Boys and girls need very strong male role models and one way they can get those is in schools.

"With increases in breakdown of families, lack of positive male role models in homes, schools are an ideal place to get that role model."

Research conducted by the Training and Development Agency for schools (TDA) found that 35% of men felt that having a male primary teacher challenged them to work harder at school.

And 22% believed that male primary teachers helped build their confidence while they were young.

However, figures from the Department of Children, Schools and Families indicate that 16% of nursery/primary school teachers are male.

"It's about redressing the balance which gives a good example to children and to parents," Mr Mitchell maintained.

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