Why Are So Few Men in Early Years Education – and What Can We Do About It?

In 2025, it’s hard to believe that only 2–3% of the UK’s early years workforce is male. Despite ongoing efforts, the nursery and childcare sectors continue to face a stark gender imbalance—one that limits both diversity in the workforce and the potential benefits of a balanced caregiving environment for children.

As a recruitment agency working closely with nurseries across the UK, we've seen first-hand the impact this imbalance has—not just on the children, but on workplace culture, recruitment pipelines, and ultimately, business performance.

So, why are so few men in early years education? And more importantly: what can we do about it?

The Current Picture: A Gender Divide

• Only 2–3% of early years educators are male.
• Around 3% of registered childminders are men.
• Even in primary education, the figure barely reaches 14%.

These statistics reflect more than a recruitment challenge. They point to deep-rooted social perceptions, structural barriers, and a lack of targeted outreach that excludes half the population from what should be a universally accessible and respected career path.

Why This Matters

Diverse teams bring a range of perspectives, approaches, and strengths. In early years settings, male role models can positively influence children’s social development, particularly for those growing up without a male caregiver. Inclusion also supports a more balanced work environment and helps shift societal norms about gender and caregiving.

However, stigmas remain—both social and professional. Men entering the early years workforce often face suspicion, outdated stereotypes, or the simple lack of visibility of other men in the field.

What Can Be Done? Real Steps Toward Change

As a recruitment agency specialising in the education and childcare sectors, Immerse Education believes that change is not only necessary—it’s possible. Here’s how we think the industry can make progress:

1. Rethink Recruitment Messaging

• Job ads should feature inclusive language and images of male educators.
• Messaging should focus on the emotional intelligence, leadership, and creativity the role requires—qualities that appeal to all genders.

2. Promote Early Engagement

• Work with schools and colleges to introduce early years careers to young men before stereotypes take hold.
• Provide male ambassadors who can speak about their experience in nurseries and child development roles.

3. Champion Representation

• Nurseries can highlight their male staff through blogs, videos, and events.
• Agencies like Immerse Education can use our platforms to share success stories, shifting public perception one narrative at a time.

4. Create Supportive Workplaces

• Encourage nurseries to foster inclusive environments where men feel welcome and valued.
• Provide mentorship opportunities to help male educators thrive and stay in the profession.

5. Collaborate Across the Sector

• Partnerships between recruitment agencies, local authorities, and training providers can help build clear pathways for men into early years roles.

How Immerse Education Is Leading the Way

At Immerse Education, we’re committed to driving diversity in education recruitment. Here’s how we’re helping nurseries improve male representation:

• Targeted Candidate Outreach: We engage directly with male jobseekers from varied backgrounds—highlighting the rewarding aspects of early years roles.
• Strategic Partnerships: We work with colleges, training providers, and community organisations to develop a broader talent pipeline.
• Employer Branding: We help nurseries tell their story in a way that appeals to all genders, enhancing their image and appeal as inclusive workplaces.
• Insight-Driven Recruitment: Using up-to-date industry data, we consult with our clients on how to attract and retain diverse talent, offering both people and strategy.
• 2025 Figures: Currently 36% of hires made across Nurseries through Immerse Education have been male - this is comprised of both Practitioner and Leadership levels

Moving Forward

Nurseries across the UK are under pressure—to maintain quality, meet regulatory standards, and deliver excellent care. But this can’t be done without a strong, skilled, and diverse workforce.

Let’s not leave half the talent pool untapped.

At Immerse Education, we believe in a more inclusive, forward-thinking childcare sector—one where men and women work side by side to give every child the best start in life. If your nursery is ready to lead the way, we’re here to support you.

Interested in learning how we can help you diversify your nursery workforce? Let’s have a conversation.

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