Schools need to break gender perceptions, says commission

July 29 2009

Children are still affected by stereotypes developed in schools leading to restricted career choices, says the Women and Work Commission.

The group has called on the government to do more to help schools and educators teaching in the UK to encourage girls to opt for non-traditional jobs.

A gender pay gap "stubbornly persists", says the commission's latest report "despite monumental changes in women's position in the workplace".

The report suggests the Department for Children, Schools and Families tackle the issue with a dedicated national strategy and work placements be organised for girls in relevant industries.

Employment union the Trades Union Congress has lent its support to the report. Brendan Barber, general secretary, told the Telegraph: "The report rightly recommends that efforts to tackle gender stereotyping should start at school."

In related news, the head teacher of Highcrest Community School in Buckinghamshire recently turned around the failing school by insisting on high teaching standards, the TimesOnline reported.

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