Mel Stride MP has welcomed a boost in tax-free bursaries and scholarships for trainee teachers in high priority subjects from September 2023. Top graduates applying to become teachers will be eligible for bursaries worth up to £27,000 and scholarships worth £29,000 for high priority subjects including science, technology and mathematics. The increases include:
- £25,000 bursaries and £27,000 scholarships for language teachers, up from £10,000 this academic year.
- £25,000 for geography teachers, up from £15,000.
- £20,000 for biology teachers, up from £10,000.
- £20,000 for Design and Technology teachers, up from £15,000 this year.
- Trainee English teachers will be able to receive up to £15,000 tax free.
Mr Stride said:
“Recruiting and retaining high quality teachers is vital children to get the best possible education. Boosting funding for bursaries by £52 million is a very welcome move, particularly given the focus on priority subjects. This will build on the Levelling Up Premiums that are attracting teachers to schools in disadvantaged areas which will benefit our economy in the long term.”
Schools Minister Jonathan Gullis said:
“As a former teacher, I know that investing in our teachers is investing in young people. These generous bursaries and scholarships will attract the brightest and the best into teaching. Shoring up the talent pipeline to teach vital subject areas such as STEM and languages will, in turn, equip young people with the knowledge and skills they need to secure a bright future, and ensure that our economy remains globally competitive.”
