Briefing points following the publication of the School Workforce
Census 2025.
- Government has already delivered
4,654 additional teachers towards its pledge of 6,500 –
more than 70% of the target achieved with three
years remaining in this Parliament.
- New workforce statistics show 3,008 more teachers in
secondary and special schools, alongside 1,646 more teachers in
further education since AY 2023/24.
- The increase in teachers in these areas reflect the
government rebalancing and targeting investment where
it is needed most. As the birth rate continues to fall, the
number of pupils in secondary schools starts
to plateau and more move into further
education.
- Special schools now have around 1,100 more teachers in
classrooms, supporting the government's priority of improving
outcomes for children with SEND.
- Teacher retention is at one of its strongest levels on
record, with around 2,100 fewer teachers leaving the profession
compared to last year.
- Recruitment is also strengthening, with a 13% increase in
people starting teacher training this year – the highest level
since the pandemic.
- STEM teacher recruitment targets have been exceeded for the
first time since they were
introduced, demonstrating the strength of the future
workforce pipeline.
- Progress is being backed by significant investment in teacher
pay, retention support and recruitment incentives, including
tax-free bursaries and scholarships worth up to £31,000 in key
subjects.
- The figures show the government is on track to deliver its
manifesto commitment while ensuring investment is targeted where
it can have the greatest impact for children and young
people.
