The Power of Male Role Models in Primary Education: A Conversation with Matt Yates

 In the heart of primary schools across the country, there are educators shaping the future – not just through lessons in math and literacy but through the power of positive role modelling. One such educator is Matt Yates from Gulval School in Penzance Cornwall (Part of the Truro and Penwith Academy Trust) a passionate and dedicated primary school teacher who has spent years inspiring young minds and proving just how vital male teachers are in early education.

As part of the Boyz-2-Men programme, which seeks to promote positive masculinity and support young boys in developing healthy identities, we recognise the immense impact male teachers have, especially for those who may lack strong male figures in their personal lives. 

In our conversation, Matt shared his journey, experiences, and insights on being a male role model in education.

A Journey into Teaching: The Unexpected Calling

Unlike many who set out from the start to become teachers, Matt’s path to primary education wasn’t initially clear. Whilst pursuing a  Sport and Exercise Science degree at the University of Exeter, he found joy in explaining concepts and helping others achieve their goals. That spark of passion led him to teaching—a career that would allow him to nurture and guide young learners every day.

Reflecting on his own childhood, he recalls the profound impact of his primary school headteacher and class teacher, who engaged students through laughter, music, and sport, whilst maintaining high expectations for behaviour and responsibility. It was this blend of fun, discipline, and mentorship that shaped his approach as a teacher today.

The Unique Role of Male Educators in Primary Schools

Male teachers in primary education remain underrepresented, yet their presence is incredibly important—especially in a world where many children grow up without strong male role models at home. Matt has seen first-hand how vital it is for young boys to witness positive masculinity in action, particularly in an era dominated by online influences, gaming culture, and the rise of toxic ideologies.

“Part of our role as male educators is to model how we act and react in situations and conduct ourselves in our day-to-day lives,” he explains. “For boys, this is even more important with the increased use of social media and the rise of harmful masculinity permeating our culture.”

Being a constant, reliable presence in the classroom provides young boys with an alternative narrative—one that challenges the hyper-masculine, emotionally repressed stereotypes that they may encounter elsewhere.

Building Relationships and Changing Lives

Perhaps one of the most rewarding aspects of teaching is seeing the long-term impact educators have on students. Matt recalls a moment when a former student, now in secondary school, returned to thank him for helping him through a difficult time at home.

“By being a constant in school, we sometimes downplay the impact we can have just by being there,” he reflects.

Another particularly memorable experience involved a student who transferred from another school after struggling with behaviour challenges. Through genuine care, clear boundaries, consistency, and encouragement, he saw the student transform into a completely different person—someone who ultimately thrived in secondary school and stayed in touch to share his progress.

These stories highlight the influence that strong, compassionate teaching has on young lives, particularly for boys who might otherwise lack guidance.

Breaking Stereotypes and Encouraging More Men to Join the Profession

Despite the rewards, being a male in primary education comes with challenges. Societal perceptions still lean toward viewing early education as a female-dominated field, which can sometimes discourage men from considering it as a career. However, Matt actively works to break these stereotypes.

“It’s important to show your true self at school and break down gender stereotypes,” he says. “For example, not just coaching the school football team, but also teaching children how to dance or discussing emotions and feelings. These small acts show that men can be nurturing, creative, and expressive too.”

He believes that more men should consider primary education, not just as a job, but as a mission to shape the future. His advice to those on the fence?

“Do it! It’s one of the most rewarding jobs in the world. Just remember, teaching is not just a job—it requires passion, dedication, and a willingness to give your best every day.”

However, to encourage more men to enter and stay in the profession, he emphasises the need for systemic changes, including reducing teacher workload so that educators can focus on what truly matters—nurturing and inspiring the next generation.

The Bigger Picture: Addressing Societal Issues through Education

At the core of Boyz-2-Men, and indeed the work of educators like Matt is the belief that positive male role models in schools contribute to broader societal change. By challenging negative stereotypes and providing boys with healthy examples of masculinity, male teachers play a crucial role in reducing violence, improving mental health, and fostering respect for others.

“With negative male role models in the media and positions of power, we need to show what real strength and character look like,” he asserts.

His ultimate message to students? “You can be anything you want to be. Never let anyone tell you that you can’t do something—you shape your own future.”

 A Call to Action: More Male Teachers Needed

As Boyz-2-Men continues it’s mission to empower boys and young men, it is clear that having more male teachers in primary education is one of the most effective ways to create lasting change. Teachers like Matt demonstrate the immeasurable impact of kindness, consistency, and positive role modelling—proving that education is not just about academics, but about shaping lives.

If we want to build a society where young boys grow up to be compassionate, responsible, and emotionally intelligent men, then we must start by ensuring they have the right role models from an early age.

For any man considering a career in primary education—now is the time. 

The classroom needs you. Our children need you. And the future will be brighter because of you.

Written By:  Richard Pomfrett – Boyz-2-Men

www.boyz-2-men.org.uk