Kirsty Williams, Cabinet Secretary for Education
This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government
Last December I tasked an Independent Panel led by Professor Mick Waters and supported by Professor Melanie Jones and Sir Alasdair Macdonald to carry out an independent review of School Teachers’ Pay and Conditions and to suggest proposals that could support our education reforms once Wales assumes responsibility for this area from 30th September 2018.
The Panel has published their report arising from the review for consideration by Welsh Ministers, our partners in local authorities, the profession and everyone who has a vested interest in education in Wales.
Taking over responsibility for teachers’ pay and conditions is an incredibly important step for our country and our education system. The English system is no longer appropriate, relevant or to the advantage of the profession here.
I agree with Mick, Melanie and Alasdair that the title of the report, ‘Teaching: a valued profession’, demonstrates the vital roles that teachers and head teachers have in ensuring the best life chances for our children and young people. We will only achieve this if we have a system that is based on the values of equity and excellence and a commitment to inclusive, public service education. This is fundamental to supporting and strengthening the teaching profession.
I want to thank Mick, Melanie and Alasdair for the vision, ambition and originality they have shown in this very comprehensive set of recommendations; each one specifically considering the needs of Wales and the profession here.
I will now consider the proposals in detail and make a further statement in due course.
I also want to build on previous and ongoing dialogue with unions and other partners, to ensure an appropriate system is in place to determine those recommendations that impact directly on teachers’ pay and conditions.
I know that by working together in this way we will deliver a sustainable system that supports our teachers and raises standards for all.
It’s an opportunity that cannot be missed.
A copy of the report can be found at: https://beta.gov.wales/teaching-and-leadership