Male teachers in primary schools

Press, 26 February 1981, Page 16

Male teachers in primary schools

Sir, — As a teacher, but mainly as a parent, I am very concerned about the serious shortage of males in the primary service. At present about 38.5 per cent of teachers in primary schools are males. This figure is highly inflated when the large numbers of males who entered the service immediately after the Second World War, and are consequently nearing retirement, are considered. As these teachers retire the already rapid decline of male teachers will be increased. An education service dominated by one sex is far from a satisfactory situation for children. A balance is considered desirable by all, but such a balance between males and females is impossible. The Government has chosen to ignore the recruitment and retention of males in primary teaching and, by its action, clearly indicates that it does not favour a balanced education system for our young children. — Yours, etc.. ALISTAIR GRAHAM. February 24, 1981.