Source · Select Committees · Education Committee
Recommendation 34
34
Deferred
Expand subject-specific National Professional Qualifications and establish clearer career progression pathways
Conclusion
The Department should build on improvements in its Continuing Professional Development (CPD) offering and there should be more scope in the system for teachers to gain and maintain seniority through subject specialism. The Department should expand its subject specific NPQ offering beyond numeracy and literacy and establish clearer career progression pathways for teachers who want to focus on and develop within their subject, for example as head of subject within a year group or subject lead across their school. We would recommend that the Department consider further NPQs for subject leaders with cross disciplinary application such as heads of science or languages. (Paragraph 140) Subject specific teacher shortages
Government Response Summary
The government states it does not believe producing a list of responsibilities for schools and teachers would be helpful. It then deflects to discussing other initiatives like the Child Poverty Taskforce and SEND reforms, without addressing the expansion of subject-specific NPQs or clearer career progression pathways.
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government
Deferred
We do not believe that producing a list of responsibilities for schools and teachers would be helpful, as looking after the development and wellbeing of large numbers of children is inevitably complex. Recognising that workload pressures extend beyond teaching, the Prime Minister announced a new Child Poverty Taskforce in July, co-chaired by the Department for Work and Pensions and the Department for Education. The Taskforce will publish its strategy later this year. Our reforms to special educational needs and disability will improve inclusivity and expertise in mainstream schools, ensuring special schools cater to those with the most complex needs. We know reducing teacher workload will play a key role in recruiting and retaining excellent school staff and will support the government’s mission to break down barriers to opportunity so all young people can achieve and thrive. We continue to work proactively with the sector to understand the drivers behind workload and wellbeing issues and improve our policies and interventions. Mental health and wellbeing