Yvonne Fleming’s worries about the burdens that the masters in teaching and learning might impose on those in their first year of teaching are over-stated (Letters, April 3). There is no dispute that the first year is very hard work, but the evidence suggests that new teachers will welcome the opportunity to build on their entry qualification straight away. In 2007-08, a quarter of all teachers opting to participate in postgraduate professional development were NQTs. The masters should be seen as extra support for new teachers, who recognise the need for development and who are already putting in the effort.

Graham Holley, Chief executive, Training and Development Agency for Schools.