As reported by the Guardian, facing a surge of teacher exits, UK schools are increasing maternity pay and offering flexible work options to retain female educators in their 30s
UK schools boost maternity pay to stem exodus of female teachers in their 30s. Sector faces ‘catastrophic loss’ as more than 9,000 thirtysomething women leave state education in a year.
Schools across England are ramping up maternity pay and offering flexible working in a bid to stem the exodus of thousands of women in their 30s from teaching.
In Wednesday’s budget, Rachel Reeves confirmed she would fund the recruiting of 6,500 new teachers by pressing ahead with imposing VAT on private school fees. Yet heads and charities are warning that with more than 9,000 women aged between 30 and 39 having left state education last year, the government will not fix the teacher shortage unless it also acts to stop experienced women leaving.
Experts say alongside a standard maternity pay package for teachers that lags many other employers, excessive workload and guilt about not having time for their own children are leading many women in this age group to conclude motherhood is not compatible with teaching.
The Education Alliance academy trust, which runs 10 schools in Hull and the East Riding of Yorkshire, last week agreed to introduce what it believes will be.
Jonny Uttley, the trust’s chief executive, said: “Nobody should have to choose between being seen as a good teacher or a good mum or dad. This dilemma has driven too many great teachers and leaders out of the profession, and it needs to stop.”
The Department for Education said: “Recruiting and keeping great teachers in our classrooms is vital to improving life chances for all children. We are committed to resetting the relationship with the education workforce and working alongside them to re-establish teaching as an attractive, expert profession.”
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