While you highlight some of the practical difficulties associated with the launch of this grand-scale initiative, the masters in teaching and learning should nonetheless be encouraged.

The new degree has the potential to be a major step forward in the training of teachers, establishing a formal route for them into continuing development as they begin their careers.

Evidence from the Training and Development Agency for Schools’ existing postgraduate professional development programme shows the positive impact that properly focused masters-level study can have on classroom performance.

We are committed to overcoming the difficult processes and challenges of launching the MTL and will strive to make it a success.

James Noble-Rogers, Executive director, and Professor Roger Woods, Chair, Universities Council for the Education of Teachers.