Claire Armitstead, Director of the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL) Cymru, comments following confirmation from the Welsh Government that teachers will receive a 4% pay award for 2025/26.
“It is disappointing that the Welsh Government has not fully accepted the recommendations made by the independent pay review body, but we are pleased that funding will be put place to meet the full costs of the pay award that has been agreed as this was vital to school budgets which are under intense strain.
“With regards to the pay award, it is good that the ‘no detriment’ clause has been adhered to, meaning the teacher pay award in Wales will be no less than that in England, but it’s regrettable that the pay review body’s calls to go further have not been met. The Independent Welsh Pay Review Body exists to make evidence-based recommendations on pay which ensure we’re able to recruit and retain enough teachers. We sincerely hope that in future years the Welsh Government will accept the recommendations of the pay review body while continuing to fully fund pay awards for all schools in Wales.
“We now need to see all local authorities passing on this funding directly to schools, enabling them to meet the costs of this award. Too many schools in Wales are in a very challenging position financially and this funding is absolutely crucial in ensuring they are able to retain and hire the staff they require.”