IT WAS good to see a timely call for more male teachers in the early stages of education off the back of the recent National Association of Head Teachers (NAHT) annual conference.

As a male teacher myself, I was surprised to learn that we make up such a low percentage considering how important it is for young children to have both male and female role models in their lives.

Our classrooms are diverse, therefore, those teaching in them should be too.

No two days are the same as a teacher, and this especially rings true when you have the pleasure of working with primary aged pupils. I go home each day knowing I’ve made a real difference, which provides an unrivalled sense of pride and is the reason I chose to teach. Teachers in Stockton-on-Tees, as well as up and down the country, get to make an extraordinary impact during some of the most crucial years of a child’s development.

Teaching is also full of structured support and clear progression opportunities, meaning you can continue your learning too.

I would encourage anyone looking for a truly meaningful career and keen to help reset the gender balance in primary education, to find out more about teaching by searching for the “Get Into Teaching” website.

I look forward to welcoming more male teachers into the profession soon!

Liam Kelly, Saint Gregory’s Catholic Academy, Stockton