Ever since the Government’s so-called “workload agreement” was implemented, NUT Cymru has warned parents and governors of the possibility that some classes would be taught by unqualified staff.

Now, NUT Cymru secretary, David Evans explains that not only does this seem to be happening in an increasing number of schools, but qualified supply teachers are finding it difficult to get work. He says, “I know experienced, qualified, supply teachers – nearly all women – who find that their opportunities have almost dried up. And I am not talking of teachers who have taken retirement!

“Some secondary schools use teacher agencies rather than their local authorities when they require cover. NUT Cymru strongly supports the local education authorities and, for the sake of the pay and conditions of service and professional development of supply teachers, believes that LEAs should be their employer.

“We have members, in their later forties and early fifties, who left teaching to bring up a family or to care for an elderly parent. They later wish to return to the profession via supply teaching. Until recently, they would have been taken on fairly regularly by three or four comprehensive or primary schools. Increasingly, however, we find that this last term they have had only a handful of supply days and those, possibly, at only one school.

“Many supply teachers feel strongly that the new pay and staffing structures together with the use of agency teachers have left them with no in-service training, no pension provision and, to all extent and purposes, with no job.

“It is unfair and demoralizing and, as the majority of supply teachers are women, it flies in the face of equal opportunities.”