The Gender Gap in Education: Why both boys and girls need attention
- Loren Assunção
- Mar 26
- 3 min read
For years, the prevailing narrative in education has been that boys are falling behind academically. However, a recent study from the UCL Institute of Education challenges this assumption. In England, boys in Year 9 (ages 13-14) have now outperformed girls in maths and science tests, marking a significant shift from previous years. The study found that the gender gap in England is the widest among the 72 countries where it was measured. Dr. Jennie Golding, one of the researchers, suggests that boys’ greater confidence in maths may be a key factor in their improved performance.
A Complex Picture of Gender and Achievement
While these findings offer a new perspective, they do not negate the broader issue of gender disparities in education and beyond. Despite improvements in girls’ academic performance, inequalities persist in the workforce. Women still earn less than men, and progress in closing the gender pay gap has been slow. The UK has even fallen behind other countries in addressing this issue, according to a recent Women in Work index.
Although younger women’s earnings may match or exceed those of their male counterparts, the so-called "motherhood penalty" continues to impact women’s long-term financial security. In 2023, mothers earned 24% less per hour than fathers, and the pensions gap remains a serious concern, increasing the likelihood of poverty in old age for women.
Beyond Gender: Socioeconomic Barriers to Success
While gender plays a role in educational outcomes, it is not the most significant determinant of academic success. Socioeconomic status, special educational needs, and ethnic background often create larger disparities than gender alone. Some experts warn that focusing too much on gender differences can distract from these broader issues.
However, it is important to strike a balance. Concerns about boys’ declining academic engagement should not be dismissed as alarmist. Boys are more than twice as likely to be excluded from school as girls. In 2022-23, three women enrolled at university for every two men, highlighting a significant gender gap in higher education. While some argue that any current advantages for women may reverse in adulthood, the future remains uncertain.
Addressing Stereotypes and Encouraging Participation
Despite girls’ academic successes, gendered expectations still influence career choices. Women now outnumber men in fields such as medicine and law, while men continue to dominate physics, maths, engineering, and computing. Research suggests that parental attitudes and a lack of confidence in STEM subjects contribute to these trends. Encouraging girls to pursue opportunities in male-dominated fields, particularly in digital technology, is crucial for fostering gender equality in the workforce.
At the same time, attention must also be given to boys’ lower school readiness at age four and their decreasing participation in higher education. Some experts suggest that financial concerns, including tuition fees and attitudes toward debt, may play a role in this trend.
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A Call for Balanced Attention
Educational success should not be seen as a zero-sum game where gains for one gender come at the expense of the other. Instead, we must recognize the distinct and shared challenges that both boys and girls face. By addressing these issues holistically, we can create a more equitable education system that benefits all students, regardless of gender.
Join the Conversation
What are your thoughts on the gender gaps in education? Have you noticed these trends in your own experiences? Share your insights in the comments below and let’s continue this important discussion!
Source: The Guardian
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