Responding to new analysis from the National Foundation for
Educational Research (NFER) which found that there would need to
by 10% pay rises for each of the next three years for the
government to achieve its goal of recruiting 6,500 new teachers,
Paul Whiteman, general secretary at school leaders' union NAHT,
said:
“Neglect by previous governments saw a huge real terms fall in
teaching professionals' pay, making it uncompetitive at all
career stages.
“Addressing this by restoring the value of pay over the course of
this parliament must be an urgent priority - while the
government's acceptance of the recommended 5.5% pay award was a
promising start, further investment will be crucial.
“However, as this report suggests, other changes will also be
needed to rebuild teaching as an attractive graduate career
choice and solve the crippling recruitment and retention crisis
facing schools. Keeping hold of serving teachers and leaders will
be absolutely critical.
“As well as pay, there is a desperate need for fundamental reform
to damaging high stakes inspection and accountability, meaningful
and measurable action to reduce workload, greater professional
recognition and agency, and action to improve the health and
well-being of professionals.
“The answer is not, however, simplistic and divisive payments
targeting teachers in certain shortage subjects, or by location
or type of school. That will not address the fundamental
challenge, which is to build a rewarding, sustainable and
attractive career and pay structure that will encourage
professionals to remain in the long term."
