Nursery World - Stereotypes blamed for shortage of men in early years

A lack of positive male role models and stereotypical views of early years may be the main reasons why there are so few men in the early years sector, according to a new report.

Research carried out by Dr Krishan Sood from Nottingham Trent University’s School of Education and Malini Mistry, School of Education, University of Bedfordshire. The study aimed to identify the reasons for the low numbers of men working as early years practitioners in schools.

They questioned a group of 18 male early years trainees both at the first and final stages of their undergraduate Initial Teacher Training (ITT) courses in one university. Thirteen male primary school head teachers were also questioned.

Dr Sood said, ‘Good leadership and support through mentoring and explicit role clarity by head teachers and staff are good starting points to encourage more males into early years teaching. Stereotypes, perceived or real, of gender inequality, homophobia or identity need to be challenged and addressed by leadership in organisations. Our findings also suggest the need for networking and partnerships.’

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