Jobs that our society considers ‘women’s work’ are systematically underpaid and undervalued. Within the Scottish economy – occupations that are dominated by women also receive lower pay. Within work itself, women have less access to promotion and are disproportionately affected by lack of flexible working, limited parental leave and the high cost of childcare.
Over 80% of the education profession are women, and over the last decades, pay has eroded substantially (over 25%). It is clear that the undervaluing of teachers is linked to the fact that teaching is a majority women profession. Compared to other graduate professions, teacher salaries lag far behind.
The pandemic and the cost of living crisis has not affected us all equally. Women, and colleagues who are underrepresented in our profession as a result of structural barriers have already seen their pay decline in real terms or lag behind for decades, due to inaccessibility, discrimination and barriers to progression. When we consider the gender pay gap, we should also remember that for disabled and BAME workers, this is even wider.
Employment structures aren’t designed for women to thrive, and this is an injustice that needs put right. Pursuing a 10% pay claim for a majority women profession is one way to do that, but we also need to look at the structures themselves, to make sure that work is Fair, for everyone.
Possible actions for Equality Reps
Further information
Posters from EIS Women’s History https://www.eis.org.uk/gender-equality/iwd2022
One Thousand Women’s Voices: https://www.eis.org.uk/gender-equality/1000womenbriefing
Get it Right for Girls: https://www.eis.org.uk/gender-equality/girfgguidance
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