What efforts have been made by the Welsh Government to assist those seeking to return to work in education after a period of absence?
We welcome and encourage those who wish to return to work in education as they help us to bring greater diversity of knowledge and skills into the workforce.
Anyone wishing to return should contact the Education Workforce Council (EWC) to ensure that they have the relevant qualifications and that they are registered with EWC where required. EWC offers a support package to enable them to gain experience in a school if this is required and provides additional support to assist with job applications and interview processes. EWC also attend careers fairs and other events to promote a career in education to anyone wishing to return to the profession.
Initial Teacher Education Partnerships also provide taster days for anyone considering joining or returning to the profession. University of South Wales offer a 10 week Returning to Teaching course which is designed to meet the requirements of qualified teachers who have been out of the profession for any amount of time. The course will enable them to familiarise themselves with the new professional standards for teaching and leadership, develop a range of behaviour management strategies, and to develop and enhance their digital competency skills in the classroom. It also aims to refresh their knowledge alongside other professionals while improving both their understanding and confidence in the classroom. We are working with other partnerships to look at the possibility of similar programmes across Wales.
Anyone wishing to return will also be supported through a suite of resources as part of our National Professional Learning Entitlement to enable them to deliver the curriculum for Wales.