Being male in a female-dominated profession has been a real eye-opener. I started studying in September 2007 and spend two days a week in placement, which at the moment is a nursery school. This is my favourite part and why I began working with children in the first place. I love working with children. Their honesty and sheer love of life is something everybody can learn from.
During my first few weeks at the nursery I was given a mixed reaction. The staff made me feel incredibly welcome. The parents fell into three distinct groups. There were the parents who thought that my presence was great and I could be a positive role model for the children. Some looked at me with suspicion, possibly because I am male. However, they would never say anything to my face. Finally, there were those who didn't care whether I was male or female. Personally this group is my favourite.
I don't want to be treated as a novelty, and neither do my other male classmates. Now I find that quite a lot of Dads will come and talk to me when they come to pick up their children. I find it very encouraging that they often ask how their child has been that day. Dads can get a bit of a bad reputation sometimes, but there are so many great Dads out there and they are brought down by the small minority who unfortunately choose not to be in their child's life. Most Dads show a keen interest in their child's well-being, sometimes more than the Mums do.
I have thoroughly enjoyed my first few months studying. It has been exciting, nerve-wracking, upsetting, and most of all very fulfilling, and I am looking forward to continuing on my course.
