An Oldham school is "reshaping what it means to be a man in the 21st century" by delivering sessions in "progressive masculinity".
In 2024, Oasis Academy Oldham began work to challenge what it calls "outdated" beliefs around how men should act, teaching boys about how to communicate and manage their emotions effectively while also looking to help them navigate challenges in the modern world.
Christopher Mason, Assistant Headteacher at Oasis Academy Oldham who oversees personal development, has said the programme is making an impact with male students.
Mr Mason said: "At Oasis Academy Oldham, a quiet but powerful cultural shift is reshaping what it means to be a man in the 21st century. Progressive masculinity — a model grounded in emotional intelligence, empathy, and equality — is gaining momentum across the academy amongst staff and students.
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"Rather than rejecting traditional strengths like resilience or responsibility, this approach reframes them for a world that values collaboration and emotional wellbeing.
"At its heart, progressive masculinity challenges the outdated belief that men must be stoic, dominant, or emotionally detached to be respected.
"Researchers have long highlighted the harm caused by these rigid expectations, linking emotional suppression to higher levels of stress, poor mental health, and strained relationships.
"In contrast, men who feel able to express vulnerability and seek support often report stronger connections and healthier lives."
Oasis Academy Oldham has been delivering progressive masculinity sessions to pupils using a course designed by the pupils, for the pupils.
A key part of the programme is a framework of 15 “check points” that boys work through, helping them build self‑awareness, respectful communication, emotional regulation, and healthier attitudes towards themselves and others.
Teachers and facilitators say that giving pupils ownership over the programme has transformed engagement.
Mr Mason said: "Boys are more willing to open up about topics often left unspoken — from mental health and friendship to consent, communication, and identity."
The programme also tackles the growing influence of social media, recognising that many boys now turn to the internet for advice.
Oasis Academy Oldham is looking to give students the tools to recognise misinformation, challenge harmful online narratives, and dismiss the tactics of so‑called “pick‑up artists.”
Mr Mason said the school is "already seeing significant improvements in how boys interact with and speak about women, with more respectful language, healthier attitudes, and a growing willingness to challenge sexist behaviour".
Feedback from the pupils is said to have been "overwhelmingly positive", with many boys say the sessions offer them a space for them to talk honestly about pressures, expectations, and the kind of men they want to become.
Several have described the check‑point system as motivating and practical, helping them track their own growth in real time.
Mr Mason said the impact of the programme extends far beyond the classroom.
He said: "Boys who once felt pressure to hide their emotions are now recognising that kindness, openness, and vulnerability are signs of confidence, not weakness.
"Those lessons are filtering into their friendships, families, and everyday interactions — from sharing responsibilities at home to calling out unfair behaviour among peers."
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Mr Mason added: "Oasis Oldham’s work shows just how powerful early, student‑led intervention can be.
"By giving boys a voice in shaping the programme — and grounding it in practical, achievable check points — the school is helping redefine what strength looks like for a new generation. It’s a shift towards authenticity, respect, and emotional maturity.
"And for many pupils in Oldham, that shift isn’t a distant goal. It’s already happening."
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