What happened: The NASUWT union has urged the UK government to extend fully paid maternity leave for teachers to 26 weeks. The union argues this would help reduce the number of women in their 30s leaving the profession.
Why it matters:
- Improved maternity pay could encourage more women to remain in teaching careers.
- Better support for parental leave may address workforce shortages in schools.
MNN Take: The union highlights inadequate maternity provisions as a key factor in teacher attrition. Extending paid leave aims to retain experienced educators and support family needs.
Sources: Guardian UK