Up to £6000 available for teachers of key subjects in new government initiative

Teachers specialising in STEM, construction, engineering, and early years education could receive up to £6000 as part of the UK government’s efforts to attract and retain highly skilled educators, the Department for Education has announced. The expansion of the levelling up premium payment scheme, set to be implemented from September, aims to encourage teachers in further education and a broader range of subjects.

The move, backed by around £200 million over the next two years, is in anticipation of the advanced British standard, a baccalaureate-style qualification aimed at integrating technical and academic education. This reform includes a proposed increase in teaching hours and a curriculum emphasising maths and English, with a special focus on assisting disadvantaged youth and addressing skill shortages to foster economic growth.

Education Secretary Gillian Keegan said, “By offering incentives of up to £6,000, we’re ensuring schools and colleges can support the recruitment and retention of dedicated teachers in high priority subjects and in the areas that need them most.”

The levelling up premium, which was initially introduced in 2022 to aid schools in disadvantaged areas, is now being extended to include further education teachers in vital sectors.

Levelling Up Minister Jacob Young added, “A high-quality education relies on excellent teachers and this funding will help schools and colleges attract and retain the staff they need to equip our kids with the best possible start in life.”

David Hughes, Chief Executive of the Association of Colleges, welcomed the initiative, noting the challenges of teacher recruitment in key sectors where industry experts often command higher salaries.

The announcement also highlights the record number of teachers now working in schools compared to 2010, with a government investment of £196 million this academic year to attract more teachers across key subjects.

To further enhance the recruitment and retention of top-tier further education teachers, an additional £470 million will be invested over two years starting 2023-24. This funding will support various priorities, complementing the ‘teach in FE’ campaign and the ‘taking teaching further’ program.