Incentives attract new Aberdeen teachers

Aberdeen City Council has received 85 applications for teaching positions after offering a new incentive package.

It is attempting to fill 52 posts. Previous attempts to attract teachers resulted in no applications being made.

The council's incentive plan involves an additional payment to successful candidates, with a further payment to those who complete an agreed period of service.

The cost of the scheme was estimated to be £260,000.

The council extended advertising of the vacant posts to England, Wales and Ireland.

There are vacant posts in the city's primary schools, and in secondary schools for teachers of subjects including physics, business education and chemistry.

Councillor Jenny Laing said: "We are very pleased with the increased level of interest for all our posts.

"There have been times in the past when we have advertised teaching posts and received no applications so we are delighted 85 applicants have submitted forms this time round.

"Education is our number one priority and we are committed to using all means possible to ensure our schools are properly staffed with quality teachers."