Issue - meetings

To receive a report from the Cabinet Member for Education and Health Reform and the Corporate Director for Education and Young People’s Services setting out an update on Teacher Recruitment and Retention Activity for 2016 and key issues in relation to teacher recruitment and retention in Kent schools, on which Members are asked to note.

1.         Mr Gough introduced the report which gave an update on Teacher Recruitment and Retention Activity for 2016 and key issues in relation to teacher recruitment and retention in Kent schools.

2.         Mr Leeson then added that the supply of teachers was still an issue, and retention was key, as around 25-30% of newly qualified teachers were being lost in the first five years of teaching.  He then responded to questions of Members and made points including the following:

(a)  There were a range of measures available to address teacher wellbeing, and more schools were looking at ways to take care of their staff.  Collaboration between schools did have an impact.

(b)  Teaching engagement and enjoyment were important, and timetables included a rich diet of art and sports to increase motivation of pupils.

(c)  There had always been difficulties recruiting male teachers to primary schools. 

(d)  Recognition of the achievements of all involved in the retention work was important, and credit should be spread widely.

3.         RESOLVED that the report be noted.