Eaton Primary School in Bunbury, Western Australia, has sparked widespread outrage after informing parents that Year 4 boys would participate in a football clinic while girls were encouraged to bring board games. The school has since confirmed that a girls' sports clinic will be held later this year.
Controversial Email Goes Viral
The school sent a message to parents stating that the Year 4 boys were “lucky enough to have a football clinic visiting” on Tuesday between recess and lunch. The email added: “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.” The message was shared widely on social media, with many critics noting the tone-deaf nature of the suggestion given the growing popularity of Australian Rules football among girls.
Education Minister Weighs In
Education Minister Sabine Winton condemned the school's approach, stating: “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. I strongly encourage the school to ensure they provide an opportunity for Eaton Primary School girls to participate in a similar clinic.”
School Clarifies and Apologises
An Education Department spokesperson confirmed that girls had not been forgotten, saying: “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 school has planned a girls’ sports clinic for the second half of this year.”
Eaton Primary School later clarified on Facebook that Tuesday’s football clinic was run by the Clontarf Foundation, which focuses on improving education, life skills, and employment prospects for Indigenous boys. The school’s post read: “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. Our students had a fantastic time developing their football skills, building teamwork and enjoying an active morning with the Clontarf team.”
Community Reaction
The incident has reignited discussions about gender equality in school sports. Many parents and community members expressed disappointment that the school did not initially consider an inclusive activity for all students. The school has not yet announced a date for the girls' sports clinic.
