SUN Spotlight: Valuing the Voice of Boys

About this Session

Statistics show a clear attainment gap between male and female students. This gap widens further for boys in receipt of Free School Meals. This session will explore how the SUN's Empower programme sought to address this issue using the Taking Boys Seriously research from Ulster University. It will discuss how the programme was conceived and the process of drawing on existing evidence to inform its development. The session will also share valuable insights from the boys involved, highlighting their experiences of education and learning. There will be opportunities to discuss current practice, share ideas, and learn from colleagues across the region.

Key Takeaways:

• Understand the experiences of boys within education.
• Explore how the Taking Boys Seriously Principles can be used to design programmes and support work with boys.
• Share effective practice and discuss strategies with colleagues.

About the SUN CPD Programme 2026-27

• The Southern Universities Network (SUN) CPD Programme offers a range of free professional development opportunities for colleagues working across education and student support.
• This year's programme brings together expert speakers and experienced practitioners to explore some of the key issues affecting learners today, from supporting specific student groups and improving wellbeing, to helping young people navigate their next steps in education and employment.
  
• Our training is suitable for school and college staff, including teachers, senior leaders, pastoral teams, governors, careers and administrative staff, as well as university colleagues working in recruitment, outreach, teaching and student support roles, and local authority staff working within education services.
  
• Each session is designed to provide practical ideas, useful insights and opportunities to learn from others across the sector.Whether you're working directly with learners or helping shape institutional practice, we hope you'll leave with knowledge and approaches that can be applied within your own role and setting

For more information, please visit https://www.sunoutreach.org/ or email sun@soton.ac.uk