NCTL teaching college prepares for surge of interest

The National College of Teaching and Learning (NCTL) has stated it is excepting a surge of interest in the profession, as a result of New Year career resolutions.

The organisation claimed it saw nearly half a million hits to its ‘Get into Teaching’ website, during January 2015 and predicts the same surge in interest to occur this year.

The expectation has arisen as teachers’ leaders are warning of a recruitment crisis in England, as figures revealed 59 per cent of schools advertising for teachers ‘struggled’ to gain applicants, while a further 20 per cent failed to appoint anyone at all.

Furthermore, the National Union of Teachers (NUT) claimed shortages resulted in schools spending a total £733 million last year on supply teacher agency services.

However, in a scheme to capitalise on New Year career changers, the NCTL is offering six online events in January to present to potential recruits what the profession can offer.

Roger Pope, chair of the NCTL, said: "As a new year begins, we know that a lot of people will be thinking about their careers and whether there's something else out there for them.

"Every year, we see an influx of people who change career into teaching, bringing a wealth of experience to help inspire the next generation.

"For those considering finding out more about teaching, our online events are an easily accessible way of deciding on the next step. This year you could begin changing hundreds of futures for the better, starting with your own."