TEACHERS’ PAY DEAL BETTER THAN EXPECTED - ATL

15 January 2008

Teachers will recognise today’s pay award is better than other public sector deals, says the Association of Teachers and Lecturers (ATL).

ATL general secretary, Dr Mary Bousted, said:

“This three year award should give stability for schools to plan their budgets and help in the recruitment and retention of teachers.

“However, this deal doesn’t match the current rate of inflation.  ATL will continue to argue that pay awards should protect teachers’ pay in real terms.

“We are pleased the STRB held a firm and principled position by not capitulating to the Government’s demands to keep public sector pay to two per cent.

“The Government should be commended for accepting the level of pay recommended by the STRB.”

Dr Bousted added:  “ATL will keep a close watch on recruitment and retention of teachers to be ready to make a strong recommendation to the STRB pay review in 2009.”

For further information please contact the ATL press office on 0207 782 1589 or visit our website www.atl.org.uk.