AQW 49406/22-27 Written question to the Minister of Education

To ask the Minister of Education whether (i) TransformED; or (ii) any associated teacher workforce planning, includes measures to support experienced teachers with non-linear careers to return to classroom teaching, particularly in shortage subjects.

Asked by Paula Bradshaw MLA on 23 June 2026

  • Answered
  • Written
Tabled
23 June 2026
Answer due by
8 July 2026
Answered
30 June 20267 days after tabling
Department
Department of Education
Priority question
No

Answer

The Department does not currently have a return-to-teaching strategy for qualified teachers but will consider developing one particularly for experienced teachers in areas where there are identified shortages.

The salary placement of a teacher is explained in the Guidance for Boards of Governors on the Formulation and Implementation of Salary Policy, at paragraph 4.5.1

Recognised teaching experience is detailed in the link above at paragraph 4.5.2.

TransformED or any associated teacher workforce planning does not include measures to support experienced teachers with non-linear careers to return to classroom teaching, particularly in shortage subjects.

Official sources