House of Representatives Committees

Standing Committee on Employment, Education and Workplace Relations

Inquiry into the education of boys
Media release, 19 March 2001

Western Australian teachers, students and experts talk about boys' education

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?

On Thursday this week, the House of Representatives Education Committee will conduct public hearings and a school forum in Perth. The Committee will talk to people from the WA Department of Education, independent schools, parent organisations, school principals, teachers and students. Topics include the nature and extent of boys' educational problems, how boys' difficulties relate to broader social and economic change and which boys are most affected.

Thursday 22/3/2001 - Public Hearings & School forum:

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 the issues in boys' education are complex and interconnected and there is not a quick fix that will meet the needs of all the boys who are not achieving to their potential.

"The Committee is examining boys' education and the related issues very carefully and it will not overlook the ways social disadvantage and other factors affect boys' ability to achieve at school." Mrs Elson said, "Boys are the major focus of this inquiry but it is impossible to examine issues about boys' education without examining issues which affect all primary and high school students. Education is not a see-saw between boys and girls and measures to assist boys who are not achieving their best will indirectly benefit all students by making schools calmer and safer places to learn."

For more details on the Perth public hearings, as well as 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. 3

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