NASUWT poll shows supply and substitute teachers urgently need more support

Commenting on the results from a poll of supply and substitute teachers attending our Supply Teachers’ Seminar today, Dr Patrick Roach, General Secretary of the NASUWT-The Teachers’ Union, said:

“There is a pressing need for Ministers to address the situation for supply and substitute teachers who have stepped up and continue to play a critical role in all schools.

“All governments and administrations must do more to protect the health and safety of teachers and to provide better financial support for supply/substitute teachers who are required to self-isolate due to Covid-19.

“92% of teachers polled highlighted concerns about inadequate rates of pay and the need for guaranteed access to the Teachers’ Pension Scheme (TPS).

“Given that daily rates of pay for many supply teachers have not increased since 2014, this is a situation that becomes ever more pressing in the context of the current cost of living crisis.

“48% of supply and substitute teachers told us that they are experiencing financial hardship. These are facts that simply must not be ignored.

“Schools cannot function without the commitment and dedication of supply and substitute teachers.

“Ministers must step up and deliver a better deal for all teachers including supply and substitute teachers.”