A survey has indicated that parents want more men to take up jobs as teachers especially in early learning with 66 per cent of single mothers expressing the strongest desire.

This is because only two per cent of men work in early years childcare and the Children’s Workforce Development Council, which commissioned the survey, is now calling for more male teachers to consider this option.

According to Thom Crabbe, the council’s national development manager, male workers need to rise to the challenge as their contributions are vital for shaping the early years of children.

"Parents are right to want to see more men working in early years. It is important that during the crucial first five years of a child’s life they have quality contact with both male and female role models," he said.

"Working with under fives is definitely a job for the boys. It’s one that requires someone who is patient, creative and bright and one which gives back major rewards."

Gender stereotypes are however putting men off taking such positions, according to Ralph Manning of the University of East Anglia.