Weekly eNews
Dr Ray Swann
Deputy Headmaster, Head of the Crowther CentreAs part of our commitment to healthy masculinity, BGS supports the work of the Foundation for Positive Masculinity (+M Foundation). Several staff at BGS spend time working in the Foundation to develop their own skills, bring new understandings and partnerships to BGS, as well as to share learnings with other researchers, staff and parents. Over the past few years, the Foundation has worked with schools in the US, UK and New Zealand.
In this week’s WAIL, we hear from Dr Swann who shares an experience in delivering for the Foundation staff training on positive masculinity at a school in Canberra. Last year, as part of the Common Ground Consortium, the Foundation was a recipient of a federal grant to fund this work.
Please reach out if you have any particular topics you would like us to explore in our weekly Crowther eNews.
Dr Ray Swann
Deputy Headmaster
Head of the Crowther Centre
Positive Masculinity Parent Workshop
This year, BGS introduced the role of Head of Positive Masculinity, led by Ingrid Howren, to further emphasise our commitment to shaping a positive and authentic sense of masculinity in our school community and beyond.
At the heart of Positive Masculinity are three key pillars: authenticity, motivation, and connection. These are not just important values; research suggests they are also essential elements of leading a fulfilling life.
We want our boys to understand who they are, what they stand for, and to have the confidence to live according to those values. We need them to stay motivated, engaged, and, most importantly, to value relationships. Feeling connected to others – whether it’s their peers, families, or the wider community – is crucial for their growth and well-being.
Positive masculinity, at its core, is about empowering boys to become the kind of men we need in today’s world: men who are less constrained by outdated gender expectations, which have often caused harm to both men and those around them.
However, this important work extends beyond school. We know that parents have the biggest influence on their sons and are navigating many complexities. You want your sons to be strong, resilient, and assertive, and at the same time, you want them to be kind, communicative, true to themselves, and confident enough to challenge traditional gender expectations. And it’s in moments of stress or pressure that old stereotypes can resurface.
We’re all working to help challenge outdated social norms and nurture authentic, motivated, and connected young men. By coming together – as parents, educators, and community members – and aligning our efforts, we can create lasting, meaningful change.
We invite you to join us on Wednesday 2 April at 7.00pm for an interactive workshop where you’ll learn why this work is so important, what we’re teaching your sons at school, and how you can support their growth at home.
See Diary Dates to register your attendance.