Nursery World - Support staff role debated

Support staff in England's schools have said they are prepared to take on enhanced roles - but any changes must be underpinned by a proper pay and career structure, additional training and adequate funding from central government. A consultation by the Department for Education and Skills on how to develop the role of support staff in schools had 698 responses, of which 297 came from support staff, and 178 from head teachers and teachers. Others contributing to the debate included local education officers, librarians, school governors, training providers and voluntary groups.

A consultation by the Department for Education and Skills on how to develop the role of support staff in schools had 698 responses, of which 297 came from support staff, and 178 from head teachers and teachers. Others contributing to the debate included local education officers, librarians, school governors, training providers and voluntary groups.

In a report on the consultation findings, the DfES said just under two-thirds (65 per cent) of respondents gave positive replies to each question, and 42 per cent indicated that support staff were already taking on key roles in teaching work, pastoral care, technical support, special educational needs and library work.

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