European experts met in London to discuss the 'extreme gendering' of the childcare workforce.
Belgian early years expert Jan Peeters, director of the research and resource centre for early childhood care and education at the University of Ghent, said, 'Men stay out of childcare because it is seen as conflicting with their male identity. It is very hard for young men of 16 or 18 years old to choose childcare as a career.
'We need to target males between 25 and 30. When men are older, they have a stronger sense of male identity and the courage to pursue a career in childcare. If more childcare centres have male workers, they will then act as role models and encourage male adolescents to join later on.'
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Unlimited access to news and opinion
-
Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news
Already have an account? Sign in here