I heard on the Today programme that there is an acute shortage of physics teachers. In June last year, you published my letter relating difficulty in being shortlisted for teaching jobs.
As an early-retired university academic with a PGCE, and having taught physics, maths and computing at undergraduate level, I was rather surprised at the situation.
I have continued to apply for jobs and, with more than 40 applications in the state sector. I obtained a single interview but no job. So I turned to the independent sector, was short-listed for most posts I applied for, offered several, and have a post from September.
I conclude that either the state sector does not want physics teachers. Or perhaps it is ageist.
Name and address supplied, Birmingham.
