NQT/RQT only

[Whynotnowbaby]

I’ve just looked at a job advert with this in the title. It’s not a job I want but I’m concerned that schools are allowed to advertise in this way. Surely that is some form of discrimination. I suppose the flip side is that at least if they are up front about not looking at more expensive teachers then they won’t waste their time applying. It makes me so sad that schools are forced to go for the cheapest candidate not the best (and that’s not to say an NQT couldn’t be best but they will never know if they don’t open it to anyone else.) We’re getting to a state where in a friend’s school (small primary) the only teachers with more than 2 years experience are the (non teaching) head and deputy.

I agree that it is not good for the profession. It will stop teachers moving schools.

I agree it is not good. As you say, an NQT might be best - we have had some brilliant NQT/RQT's, however, our school also appoints more experienced staff as well - we don't advertise for NQT only.

A school nearby though has recently advertised for NQT x 2 - for the same subject. This school is in special measures and is a very tough place to be by all accounts so I'm not sure employing two NQT's in one department is going to provide the necessary support.

You need balance in schools/departments - the fresh ideas/enthusiasm of NQT's and the experience/wisdom of more experienced staff.

My DDs school is nearly all NQT/ RQT, many trained there. Absolutely no broad understanding or knowledge of pedagogy, curriculum development or even teaching of reading.
A mix is so important.

I agree that this isn't good for the school- and only wanting the cheapest candidates isn't a good sign.

However, discrimination can only be claimed on the basis of a protected characteristic (age, disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, marriage and civil partnership and pregnancy and maternity) so it is perfectly legal.

I suspect it will to be to do with tight budgets, but sometimes it isn't. My old school, small one form entry primary, had a very stable staff over many years, and in the end had all 7 teachers on UPS. When one class teacher retired they actively sought an NQT/RQT as they were in a perfect position to support one and felt it would add balance to the staff.