Tougher entry tests planned for trainee teachers

The chief executive of the Teaching Agency has backed government changes to entry tests for people wanting to become teachers, aimed at raising the quality and standing of the profession.

Charlie Taylor, whose organisation is responsible for administering the new, tougher tests in English, mathematics and reasoning, said the assessments would help ensure that only the best candidates were accepted.

But prospective trainee teacher, Joe Grant, warned that non-academic skills such as personality and charisma were also vital.

Some unions have argued that better pay and conditions are key to attracting the best candidates into the profession.