Schools could be given an additional INSET day each year for the next three years under plans announced today by Education Minister, Kirsty Williams.
This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government
The INSET day would be specifically for the purpose of Professional Learning to support the introduction of the new curriculum – to be rolled out from 2022.
A consultation on the proposal begins today.
Also today, the Education Minister has provided an update on consideration of the recommendations made in the report ‘Teaching: A Valued Profession’ from the Independent Panel led by Professor Mick Waters.
Alongside the additional INSET day, the Education Minister confirmed that the Welsh Government had already taken forward some recommendations in Professor Waters’ report, such as establishing an Independent Welsh Pay Review Body.
Longer term recommendations relating to teachers’ pay and conditions will be discussed with the education workforce unions and employers and then considered in detail by the new Independent Welsh Pay Review Body.
The National Academy of Educational Leadership will specifically consider Professor Waters’ recommendations relating to leadership matters.
Kirsty Williams said:
“An additional INSET day shows how serious we are about giving our teachers the time and support they need to prepare for the new curriculum.
“Alongside existing INSET days and, together with the £24million I previously announced for the National Approach to Professional Learning (NAPL), this represents a significant investment in the teaching profession.
“Taking over responsibility for teachers’ pay and conditions was an incredibly important step forwards for our country and our education system. It is also a tremendous opportunity.
“After considering Professor Waters’ proposals in detail, I have decided that there are a number of short and long-term actions we can take to support and strengthen the teaching profession.
“In the longer-term, the independent Pay Review Body will help us create a pay and condition system that supports progression, equity and excellence and makes Wales the best country in the UK in which to pursue a teaching career.”