Teachers have rejected the notion of elite “advanced skills teachers”, as proposed by ministers to raise standards. Members of the Association of Teachers and Lecturers said in a survey that all teachers should be able to apply for the new grade and the opportunity to be rewarded for their abilities - not just a select few.
Traditionally, the profession has resisted individual rewards, except for taking on extra responsibilities. However, the report shows that 91 per cent of the 2,500 interviewed favoured extra pay for those with advanced skills.
The Government has indicated that only a few will be eligible for the grade and that no new money will be available.
Ninety-four per cent agreed with rewarding highly-skilled teachers without them having to take on more administrative work, but 98 per cent wanted the scheme to be properly funded.
