Source : Perth Now news
A primary school that sparked outrage online when it notified parents about a footy clinic for boys — with girls relegated to playing board games — has confirmed its female students will get their own sports clinic.
Eaton Primary School, in Bunbury, this week sent a message to parents saying the Year 4 boys were “lucky enough to have a football clinic visiting”.
The visit was scheduled to take place on Tuesday, between recess and lunch.
“With this in mind, if any girls have any fun board games they would like to bring in, we will use this as an opportunity for the girls to have some fun also,” it read.
The message went viral after it was re-shared on social media, with many commenting the school’s wording appeared tone-deaf given the rapid increase in the number of girls playing Australian Rules.
The controversy also drew the attention of Education Minister Sabine Winton, who has since warned the school to ensure girls also have access to a sports clinic.
“It is my expectation that WA public schools provide the same opportunities to both girls and boys — whether that is in the classroom or on the sporting field,” she said on Wednesday.
“I strongly encourage the school to ensure they provide an opportunity for Eaton Primary School girls to participate in a similar clinic.”
An Education Department spokesperson confirmed girls had not been forgotten.
“Throughout the year, Eaton Primary School students are provided with a range of opportunities to build positive self-esteem, develop confidence, and encourage strong engagement in education,” the spokesperson said.
“The school has planned a girls’ sports clinic for the second half of this year.”
Eaton later clarified on Facebook that Tuesday’s football clinic had been run by the Clontarf Foundation, which specialises in using sport to improve the education, life skills and employment prospects of Indigenous boys.
“As part of our NAIDOC Week celebrations, some of our Year 4 and 5 boys had the opportunity to take part in a football clinic delivered by the Clontarf Foundation,” the school’s post said.
“Our students had a fantastic time developing their football skills, building teamwork and enjoying an active morning with the Clontarf team.”
