Letter: How to pay teachers

Sir: In his article "Why payment by results is the only course for teachers" (Review, 2 June) the Prime Minister's own words do not have to imply payment by results. He actually wrote: "We are not talking here about crude payment by results."

Tony Blair says he wants to reward good teachers and help them remain in the classroom.

This can be achieved by linking pay to a system of appraisal which does not judge teachers by results but, much better, rewards those who bring the right skills, knowledge and effort to the classroom.

NIGEL De GRUCHY

General Secretary

NASUWT

London WC2