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Non-specialist teachers, axed subjects and larger classes as recruitment crisis worsens

The use of non-subject specialists and even supply teachers to fill teaching vacancies in schools has become widespread as the recruitment crisis continues. A new study also shows that schools are axing courses in a number of subjects.

The research has been carried out by the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL) as part of a push to have teaching placed on the Shortage Occupation List – which would make it easier for schools to recruit from English-speaking countries outside the European Economic Area (EEA).Currently, the teaching subjects on the list are mathematics, physics and chemistry, but ASCL wants to see teaching in general added.

Its evidence survey involved 433 school leaders from secondary schools in England and showed that 97 per cent are experiencing difficulty recruitment; 80 per cent said the situation is worse now than a year ago.

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