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."