Educational Outcomes for Boys

In reply to the Hon. S.L. GAME ().25 September 2024).

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Attorney-General, Minister for Industrial Relations and Public Sector): The Minister for Education, Training and Skills has advised:

There is no evidence to suggest that the gender of a child's early education teacher has any influence on levels of education attainment later in life. Our early childhood workforce should be celebrated for their dedication to providing all children, regardless of their gender, the best possible start in life.

The Malinauskas Labor government is investing a record $96.6 million over four years to grow and support South Australia's early childhood workforce and provide support for quality teaching and learning in preparation for universal three-year-old preschool delivery. This unprecedented investment will facilitate new approaches to develop a more diverse workforce, including consideration of age, gender, culture and abilities of educators and teachers.

Further information can be found at:

https://www.earlychildhood.sa.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0004/922477/Early-Childhood-Workforce-Strategy.pdf

The Malinauskas Labor government is also delivering a $2 million election commitment for 400 teaching scholarships to get more male primary school teachers in the profession, along with other under-represented groups.

Various awards and recognition programs run by state government agencies celebrate those who make a significant contribution to our state. Award recipients are positive role models for children and young people, highlighting that gender is no barrier to achieving their full potential. This includes the Public Education Awards, celebrating the success of staff in public education and promoting them as role models for children and young people.