To ask the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families (1) what financial assistance is available for supply teachers without qualified teacher status (QTS) earning the equivalent of a classroom teacher on the M6 pay scale who wish to obtain QTS; and if he will make a statement; (223779)

Unqualified teachers, including those acting as supply teachers, can gain QTS by completing one of the employment-based programmes. These include the Graduate Teacher Programme, the Registered Teacher Programme (for those without a degree or equivalent qualification) or, for overseas trained teachers, the Overseas Trained Teacher Programme all of which can be tailored to take account of prior experience. Alternatively they could complete an undergraduate teacher training course or postgraduate certificate in education. There are different financial support arrangements for each programme. Further information on the training options and financial assistance available can be obtained from the Teaching Information Line on 0845 6000 991 or by reference to the Training and Development Agency for Schools teacher recruitment website at:

www.tda.gov.uk.