Adam Dance MP: Somerset teachers deserve targeted action, not just promises

Adam Dance, Liberal Democrat MP for Yeovil, has called for more targeted support for teachers in Somerset following a parliamentary response from the Minister of State for Education, Catherine McKinnell MP, about the government’s plans to improve teacher recruitment and retention.

In his written question, Adam asked what specific measures the government is taking to address teacher shortages and support schools in Somerset.

Responding, the Minister highlighted national programmes, including bursaries of up to £29,000 for teacher trainees, a pay rise for teachers, and retention incentives for early career teachers in key subjects working in disadvantaged schools. The Minister confirmed that six schools in the Yeovil constituency are eligible for these retention payments.

She also referenced a range of strategies including flexible working initiatives and the work of the Five Counties Teaching School Hubs Alliance, which supports teacher development across Somerset and surrounding areas.

Adam Dance MP said:

"It’s no secret that teacher shortages are a serious issue in Somerset – I’ve heard this time and again from school leaders across Yeovil and South Somerset. While I welcome some of the measures mentioned by the Minister, we need more than broad national schemes. Our rural schools face unique recruitment and retention challenges, and they deserve tailored solutions.

“I’ve spoken with headteachers who are finding it almost impossible to fill key teaching posts, especially in core subjects like maths and science. We need urgent, localised action to back our schools and give every child in Somerset the best start in life.

“The Liberal Democrats are calling for a long-term workforce strategy that supports teacher wellbeing, delivers fair funding for schools, and recognises the vital role educators play in our communities. A strong education system starts with supporting the people who deliver it every day.”

Adam has pledged to continue pressing for more targeted investment in Somerset’s schools, and to hold the government to account to ensure rural areas are not left behind when it comes to supporting and retaining dedicated teachers.