Written question WQ95509

The Welsh Government introduced a National Supply Pool for Wales in May 2023 to provide an option for schools to source and book supply staff directly. Initial roll out within Ynys Môn took place and has been kept under review. Initial feedback is broadly positive. Anglesey however remain the employer and payroll is managed by the Local Authority ensuring access to the Teacher Pension Scheme (TPS) has been maintained. They continue to operate a dual system as some schools continue to use personal lists of teachers and under the regulatory framework (Staffing in Maintained Schools (Wales) Regulations 2006) this must be supported.

Officials held a summit in 2024 with key stakeholders, including Unions and local authorities, to discuss progress and next steps for supporting supply teachers in Wales. All options proposed during the summit will be explored further as part of the development of the Strategic education workforce plan, which I announced on 10 January.