Teachers across the country are being provided with specialised skills to meet the unique academic needs of boys thanks to a degree program at the University of Newcastle.

Close to 300 students have completed the University's Graduate Certificate and Masters in Educational Studies (Educating Boys).

Speaking at the national 'Working with Boys, Building Fine Men' conference, Victoria Clay, from the University's Family Action Centre, will discuss the degree programs designed for teachers to develop skills in educating boys.

"These degree programs are the first of their kind. Our students consistently credit them with transforming their teaching practices," said Ms Clay.

"Ten years ago, teaching and researching boys in schools was a niche area. Thanks to the work of the University's Family Action Centre, interest in the field of boys in schools has grown significantly.

"The University of Newcastle is meeting the needs of teachers by providing students with the skills to develop innovative school programs to improve the educational success of boys."

The degree programs cover topical issues such as literacy and school organisation and structural issues for meeting the social and academic needs of boys.

Teachers and educators from across the nation, including graduates from the University's educating boys degree programs, will meet in Newcastle next week. They will showcase the latest initiatives for boys in schools at the University's 'Working with Boys, Building Fine Men' conference.

The University of Newcastle's Family Action Centre will host the 5th Biennial 'Working with Boys, Building Fine Men' conference from 4 - 6 July 2007 in Newcastle.

For more information visit: www.pco.com.au/boys2007