Plans to recruit male teachers spark debate

The answer to closing the gender achievement gap in UK schools will not be closed simply by recruiting more male teachers, a new report suggests.

According to the study for the Department for Children, Schools and Families, attempting to close the gender achievement gap between boys and girls by recruiting more male teachers is a "simplistic" approach.

Ministers have previously called for more male teachers in schools to provide boys with good male role models, but the report suggests that this is not the answer to boosting achievement among male pupils.

The study suggests that there is "little evidence" to support the theory that different pupil-teacher interactions increase achievement, adding that some male teachers can be too harsh in their treatment of boys.

Schools are reporting that the ratio of male to female teachers is becoming increasingly skewed and have called for efforts to recruit more male teachers.

A poll conducted in 2006 found that two thirds (65 per cent) of pupils and a similar number of teachers do not believe that the gender of teachers matters, though ability was rated highly and pupils felt that boys were often treated more harshly than girls in the classroom.

"Overall, trends indicate that girls and boys seem to relate differently to schooling and learning and girls find it easier to succeed in school settings," the report states.

Research has indicated that it is import to combat negative images of masculinity in schools and improve self-image among pupils to raise levels of attainment.


© Adfero Ltd
Date:09/07/2007 09:50:03