A Mid Wales Assembly Member has called for the Welsh Government to do more to tackle issues in supply teaching, as evidence racks up highlighting the need for reform.
Russell George, AM for Montgomeryshire, has previously raised concerns about the extensive use of supply teacher cover; and a recent report from the National Assembly’s Children, Young People and Education Committee on Supply Teaching in Wales has found that the current system for supply teaching “does not appear to be working effectively”.
The report found that almost a quarter of pupils are taught by a supply teacher at least once a week and almost a third are taught by a different supply teacher each time.
Mr George said:
“Supply teachers have a vital role to play in our education system – but, for too long, it has become clear that the current model for providing supply teaching in Wales is ineffective.
“The extensive use of different supply teachers on an ad hoc basis can, in some circumstances, create instability in the education system – so it’s clear we need a more consistent, joined-up approach in Wales; offering more reassurance to parents and pupils.
“With stress-related illness among teachers too high, and some Local Authorities more reliant on supply teachers than others; it is clear that Wales is crying out for a Welsh Government that provides teachers with the support, freedom and opportunities they need.”
