Standing Committee on Employment, Education and Workplace Relations

Inquiry into the education of boys
Media release, 3 April 2001

House of Representatives Education Committee discuss boys' education

Att: National TV, Radio & Print Media
STORY ON: Thursday 5 April 2001

Boys are often blamed for disruptive behaviour or having a bad attitude. Some have low self-esteem, difficulty communicating with others and display problems at school. Some boys are experiencing learning difficulties and the literacy gap between boys and girls is increasing. So, what is the problem facing boys and what can be done to help?

At this Thursday's public hearing the House of Representatives Education Committee will discuss boys' education generally and whether current gender equity policies in education are appropriate to meet boys' needs. Mr Richard Fletcher is Manager of the Men and Boys Program at the University of Newcastle. He has presented seminars to schools across Australia raising awareness about boys' educational and health issues.

• Public hearing: House of Representatives Education Committee
  The education of boys inquiry
  Mr Richard Fletcher
  
• Where: Committee room 1R3, Parliament House
• When: Thursday 5 April, 9:00am - 9:45am

The House Education Committee is currently undertaking an inquiry into the education of boys focussing on the social, cultural and educational factors affecting boys.

Mrs Kay Elson, Committee Chair, said there was a question mark over whether the current policy framework adequately addressed the needs of some boys in schools.

"Much of the current policy framework dealing with boys' and girls' issues in education has evolved from the policies and strategies developed to help girls overcome social and economic disadvantage." Mrs Elson said. "It is clear that many girls still require specific strategies to address continuing disadvantage in education and employment but the origins of girls' disadvantage are often not closely connected to the causes of boys' under-performance. Consequently, it is necessary for the Committee to consider whether the current policy framework is appropriately focused on the needs of both boys and girls and whether some changes might be required."

For background information on the inquiry, visit: www.aph.gov.au/house/committee/eewr

For media comment contact Mrs Kay Elson MP, Chair of the House Education Committee, on 07 3807 6340

For background information contact the Committee Secretariat on (02) 6277 4573.

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