Sir, - In the light of the somewhat intemperate statements by the Catholic Secondary School Parents' Association in relation to the Exploring Masculinities Programme (The Irish Times, September 21st), it is important to present the context in which the programme has been offered in schools.
Firstly, under the terms of the Education Act schools are required to promote equality of opportunity for both male and female students. Secondly, the Equal Status Act, which renders discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation illegal, has implications for schools. Thirdly, the gap between the achievement of boys and girls in academic results is widening. Furthermore, our education system is frequently criticised for being academic and for not catering for emotional and personal development.
In this context a programme such as Exploring Masculinities - a programme in personal and social development for transition year and senior cycle boys and young men with modules on the world of work, bullying, sport, images of man, relationships, health and safety - can have a developmental role.
The aims of the programme are to explore different perceptions and experiences of masculinity; promote understanding and respect for diversity; promote equality among and between the sexes; provide opportunities for males to develop enhanced interpersonal and social skills; promote healthy lifestyles; and raise awareness of life choices, changing roles in society, work (paid and unpaid), relationships, health and sexuality, violence against adults and children, sport.
The ASTI accepts that the methodologies and content of the programme should be subject to critical appraisal and modification. However, it believes the programme has a very valuable role to play in the education of young men in second-level schools. We would like to pay tribute to the parents, boards of management, teachers, principals and pupils in the schools involved in the programme.
Currently the NCCA is engaged in a review of the programme and the ASTI looks forward with interest to the outcome. - Yours, etc.,
Catherine Fitzpatrick, President, ASTI, Winetavern Street, Dublin 8.
