The Commons eduction and employment select committee is reported to want an inquiry into the reasons for the low recruitment of men in the early years’ sector ( TES , March 30).

Such an inquiry would be unnecessary and a waste of money. Instead, the government should consult those of us - like myself - who already work in the sector.

The principal deterrents to men entering this predominantly female profession are:

• Low pay.
• Lack of career structure - this is more apparent for those early years’ workers (qualified) who are employed in an educational setting.
• Low status. Many men do not wish to work in a profession which is regarded by many as the Cinderella of teaching.
• Prejudice. Many men are unwilling to take the risk of being labelled pervert by people who assume wrong motives for their interest in children.

• Most of these issues are ones on which male and female early years’ workers are united as they affect us all.

  Paul Rothera
  Cottesmore St Mary’s primary school, Hove, East Sussex