Ulster Unionist Party Leader and Education Spokesperson Jon Burrows MLA has welcomed the Education Minister’s enhanced support programme for newly qualified teachers but stressed that professional development must be backed by protected time and proper resources.

Jon Burrows MLA said:

“When Northern Ireland’s trainee teachers graduate, they do so having received outstanding education and training.

“Continued professional development is important, but it must not become another burden for teachers already facing immense workloads.

“Any induction programme must include protected time, fully funded substitute cover and a guarantee that participation will not add to teachers’ workloads.

“In schools across Northern Ireland, teachers consistently tell me that they need practical support from the Department and the Education Authority: relief from bureaucracy, proper support when they are injured at work, and the time and space to do what they do best, teach.

“If we are serious about retaining the next generation of teachers, we must provide them with the support they need alongside the best possible training and professional development.”