There are several factors affecting the new academic year. Some are external pressures but there are also matters that have a real impact within the classroom

There are several factors affecting the new academic year. Some are external pressures but there are also matters that have a real impact within the classroom. Let’s look at a few:

1. Teachers pay staying at 1% or 2% for those at the bottom of the pay scale

This will impact every teacher still within the main pay scale framework and comes as disappointing news following the mixed messages from the government and indeed the Education Secretary on this issue. As with other public-sector workers, this now represents a fall in real pay. The budget this year will be fascinating to see what movement there is on this issue, if any!

1. A new report has stated that 25% of all teachers who joined the profession since 2011 have left the profession

This is a huge issue. I constantly hear the government talk about recruitment but you unsurprisingly do not hear about the huge retention issues we face. With the uncertainty of Brexit meaning a lot of EU trained teachers are questioning whether they can stay in the UK, there are more challenges ahead. One of the proposed solutions to this is the increase in emphasis on QTLS and alternative teacher training routes. Does this lead to a diluting of PGCEs however and will schools start looking to alternative places to meet their hiring needs?

1. The new GCSE 1-9 marking scheme has been introduced but a new report says that less than a third of businesses understand the new system

I was in the first year to do A/S levels in 2001 (I am showing my age) and in my experience employers and even Universities (at the time!) were slightly confused as to what these new qualifications mean. Given that the standard for many employers is a C grade for GCSE Maths and English this will have real impact on recruitment in the future. What can be done to let employers know what the difference is between a 4 and 6 for example?

1. This year it was the fidget spinner, what will it be next year?

It seems that this year’s craze was the fidget spinner. Were you able to find a way to integrate them into your learning or did they just grate? Last year it was Pokémon Go, this year the spinners. What will next year bring and how as education professionals do we deal with these new fads. Embrace the zeitgeist or take a hard line?

Every year brings new challenges but also new opportunities for personal growth. Teaching can be inspiring and is more important than ever. The classroom today will reflect the society of tomorrow. Never underestimate the part you play in positively shaping the lives of pupils.

Finally, have a wonderful summer and remember, whatever the time of year, Classroom is here to help. Let us get you the role you want. Just call 020 7636 0600 or email apply@classroomteachers.co.uk.