Written question asked by Lord Graham of Edmonton (Labour), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Hill of Oareford (Conservative) on Wednesday, 17 November 2010.

Schools: Teachers' Pay

Question: To ask Her Majesty’s Government whether they have any plans to review or alter the documents entitled School Teachers' Pay and Conditions and Guidance on School Teachers' Pay and Conditions.

Answer: New versions of the school teachers’ pay and conditions document (STPCD) and associated guidance on school teachers’ pay and conditions are published annually to take effect from the start of the academic year on 1 September. The current version is dated 2010. Changes to the STPCD are made following recommendations from the independent School Teachers’ Review Body (STRB). The Secretary of State issued a remit letter to the STRB on 27 October. It covers two matters, requiring a report by 28 February 2011 on the pay uplift for those earning £21,000 or less; and a report by 30 March on whether there should be a cap on head teachers’ pay in line with the Prime Minister’s salary. The remit letter also flagged the Secretary of State’s intention to return to the STRB early next year to look at the introduction of greater freedoms and flexibilities to the teachers’ pay system, as part of the coalition Government’s commitment to give schools greater freedoms to pay good teachers more.

Secondary information