Pilot programmes to support flexible working in schools pledged by DfE

The Department for Education (DfE) has announced new pilot programmes which aims to boost support for flexible working in the teaching profession.

At the first Flexible Working in Schools Summit, education secretary Justine Greening announced new pilot programmes to look at ways of supporting and employing teachers flexibly, and enhancing coaching schemes for women working in education.

Co-chaired by Geoff Barton, general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, the summit is part of the government’s commitment to recruiting and retaining great teachers and tackling the gender pay gap by encouraging employers to support alternative ways of working.

The plans include: a pilot programme to look at how schools are already bolstering the careers of part-time teachers, so recruiting best practice can be shared; a pilot to strengthen the Women Leading in Education coaching offer, so women can continue to get the professional development support they need; and updating existing guidance on flexible working, to help make it easier for schools to know what works.

Alongside these announcements, the government will publish a new myth buster to help answer any questions school leaders may have around recruiting for roles with flexible hours. The need to include more part-time or flexible vacancies will also be considered as part of the proposals for the Teacher Vacancy Service.

Greening said: “The pledges we have made today show that we are determined to leave no stone unturned to make the best of all of the talent and dedication in the teaching profession.”