The subjects that are suffering

The Government has identified certain subjects facing a teacher shortage: maths, science, foreign languages, technology, geography, music and religious education. In 2001/2, these subjects were short as follows:

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The Government has identified certain subjects facing a teacher shortage: maths, science, foreign languages, technology, geography, music and religious education. In 2001/2, these subjects were short as follows:

Maths – 20 per cent
Science – 8 per cent
Modern languages – 17 per cent
Technology – 1 per cent
Geography – 13 per cent
Music – 8 per cent
RE – 10 per cent

Overall, there was a 10 per cent increase in recruitment on initial teacher training courses for 2001/2. Maths alone recorded a 20 per cent increase.

The percentage change in postgraduate applications to shortage subjects for 2001/2002 in England so far are:

Maths – 28.7 per cent
Science – 11.9 per cent
French – 12.5 per cent
German – 17.2 per cent
IT – 84.6 per cent
Geography – 14.8 per cent
Music – 7.7 per cent
RE – 20.5 per cent

Secondary Shortage Subject Scheme in England (SSSS)

The Government has set up a scheme in England which postgraduates and undergraduates can apply to when they choose a shortage subject. A limited number of payments are made to students in need, with ceilings of £5,000 for those aged under 24 and £7,500 for older trainees.

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An additional £4,000 is available for eligible postgraduates teaching maths, science, English, modern foreign languages, design and technology and ICT in England.

For more information on the above schemes, visit the TTA website www.canteach.gov.uk or telephone the Teaching Incentive And Further Support Helpline on 0845 6000 991.

Sources: Teacher Training Agency, Graduate Teacher Training Registry, Department for Education and Skills