School places ‘carrot’ aims to keep staff (From Worcester News)

School places ‘carrot’ aims to keep staff

1:50pm Monday 11th March 2013 in News By Tom Edwards

TEACHERS are to be prioritised in the battle for school places in Worcestershire, it has emerged.

The move, part of a new pupil admissions policy published by Worcestershire County Council, is intended to act as a sweetener to keep talented school staff in the county.

Under the plan, teachers and any other school staff employed for more than two years will get priority for their child’s places.

A report on it states: “It is unknown how many children will benefit from this policy change as parents, including staff in schools take into account many factors when expressing a preference for a school.

“However, this could be an important tool in the recruitment and retention of staff.”

It was unanimously backed by County Hall’s decision-making cabinet, which said it was a “sensible” step forward.

The authority believes the offer will make Worcestershire a more attractive place for teachers looking to either relocate or get their first jobs after qualifying.

Councillor Liz Eyre, the cabinet member for children and young people, said the new policy would help parents understand the decision-making process.

She said: “What this does is it tidies up a number of policies and clarify things, which will make it a lot easier for parents.”

Councillor Jane Potter, the cabinet member for education and skills, said: “The change with the policy to multiple births is welcomed as it establishes a reasonable position with regards to families.”