Overcoming barriers to boys’ education

Nelson Mandela said, “Education is the most powerful weapon we can use to change the world.” There is broad agreement that education is the cornerstone of progress and success. However, as we strive to create a level playing field where everyone can thrive, we must address the unique challenges boys face in our education system.

We know boys are falling behind girls in reading, writing and maths. Only 30 percent of boys leave with University Entrance, and they are less represented at university (about two men for every three women).

To enhance the outcomes for our boys, it is necessary to re-examine our current methods and consider innovative approaches.

By addressing specific needs and providing tailored solutions, we can ensure boys thrive academically, emotionally and socially. Boys perform better in single-sex schools. Does this mean we should segregate education?

Not necessarily. We can do several things across all schools to ensure that boys are thriving alongside girls.

American philosopher Christina Hoff Sommers has written that our schools have become more “feelings-centred, risk-averse, competition-free, and sedentary,” making them far less engaging for boys and increasing the likelihood of disruptive behaviour.

Let’s incorporate hands-on activities, practical projects, real-world applications, and some risks that can harness their natural curiosity and promote critical thinking.

Recognising and supporting boys’ natural desire for physical activity is important. We shouldn’t dismiss or criticise the hormonal changes they experience during their teenage years but, instead, find positive outlets for their energy.

Expanding physical education programmes to offer a variety of activities, including team sports, martial arts and dance, can be very beneficial. These activities promote physical health and teach important skills like teamwork, self-discipline and self-esteem.

Additionally, offering these programmes could help to attract more male teachers to schools. The absence of male teachers is a problem. We know male role models in education can positively impact boys’ development. Currently, only one in four teachers in our country are male. We must actively recruit and support male teachers as they can offer guidance, understanding and relatability, positively influencing boys’ academic and personal growth.

Boys typically express their emotions in a practical manner. This is often seen as a lack of emotional intelligence and limited self-expression. Amid crises, this is a good thing. Long term, we need to provide them with tools to process these emotions fully. Schools must consider ways for boys to explore and understand their emotions. Implementing techniques like “action-release”, “suppression-delayed reaction”, or displacement-objectification” can equip boys with the necessary tools to navigate their emotional landscape and build healthier relationships.

In the hands of our children rests the future of our country. It is troubling that many boys are leaving school without qualifications, as this could pose severe economic implications for our nation in the coming years. Economist Cameron Bagrie has highlighted the real-world consequences of this trend and emphasised the need for immediate action. It is, therefore, essential to equip all of our students with the necessary skills and education to become future leaders.