Accommodation cost 'could be deterring teachers'

The issue of housing was part of questioning about recruitment and retention in Guernsey's education sector

The high cost of accommodation could be making Guernsey "less attractive" to teach in, according to the president of the Education, Sport and Culture committee.

In a scrutiny meeting, Deputy Andrea Dudley-Owen said the island's housing market was going through a cycle of "squeeze".

People who are hired by the States from outside the island receive a relocation package which includes a rental allowance.

National Education Union representative Paul Montague said teachers were "not willing to stay in Guernsey" once the allowance expires.

'Doesn't make sense'

Mr Montague said teachers also complained about the range of accommodation available.

"We get lots and lots of complaints about the quality of accommodation, and what they're getting for what they pay," he said.

"For a lot of colleagues from the UK, they find it really doesn't make sense."

The issue of accommodation was part of questions on recruitment and retention in the education sector.

Dudley-Owen responded: "Invariably it is a challenge because of the cost of living and cost of accommodation on-island.

"It has to been seen as a factor that might make us less attractive."

'Massively damaging'

Director of education Nick Hynes said recruitment and retention was "stronger" than in previous years.

Mr Montague said: "There has been a slight reduction in the use of agency staff, but we are still suffering from a massive turnover of staff.

"When I think about that on student outcomes, it is massively damaging."