As well s PSHE, you’ll know I’m a huge fan of developing future thinking and aspirations through connected careers education.
In this great article from TES we learn about how unhealthy and limiting masculine / feminine stereotypes can be challenged by making sure boys are pointed towards HEAL #Careers – Health, Education, Admin and Literacy jobs – so that caring professions can be seen as positive aspirations for men too.
In Scotland the research shows a dearth of men in Primary teaching (a shocking 11%) Secondary (just 35%) and Special Schools with a mere 22% men involved in the practice of education and behind the scenes, just 17% work in administration.
In New Zealand this is challenged as boys are encouraged towards HEAL careers as much as girls and as this article suggests, breaking down the stigma of more or less ‘masculine’ jobs only happens with focus and effort and a school / education-wide approach to dismantling myths around careers and work.
My book, The Ladder from Crown House and Independent Thinking Press can help with the development of initiatives in your setting to overcome stereotypes.
Our workshop – What Makes A Man / (Hu)Man is also about challenging stereotypes and unhealthy masculinity.
