Call for changes to maths and science teaching jobs

Teaching jobs for science and maths subjects should be filled by those with expert knowledge of the subjects, a new report has said.

According to the Science and Expert Learning Group, staff in education jobs should have a high level of training in the subjects while exams in maths and the sciences should also be made more challenging for pupils, helping improve overall standards.

Sir Mark Walport, chairman of the Science and Learning Expert Group, said: "Our overarching recommendation is that specialist teachers and their subjects need to come to the fore in the teaching of science and mathematics in schools.

"An excellent education depends on excellent teaching, a strong curriculum and assessment that is fit for purpose."

The report follows a public consultation on the issue conducted by the Group last year, which was jointly supported by the Department for Children, Schools and Families, and the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills.

Posted by Tim Colman

Published On 25/02/2010