Burrows warns new teacher support must not add to already heavy workloads

Inset: Ulster Unionist Party leader Jon Burrows MLA

New support for newly qualified teachers must come with protected time and proper resources rather than adding to already heavy workloads, Ulster Unionist Party leader Jon Burrows MLA has warned.

His comments follow the launch of an enhanced induction programme for teachers beginning their careers in Northern Ireland, including a new online learning platform alongside face-to-face training and live webinars.

While welcoming greater support for early-career teachers, Mr Burrows said the success of the programme would depend on whether schools and teachers are given the time and resources needed to participate.

Call for protected time and substitute cover

Mr Burrows, the UUP’s education spokesperson, said newly qualified teachers already enter the profession following extensive training and should not find professional development becoming an additional pressure.

“When Northern Ireland’s trainee teachers graduate, they do so having received outstanding education and training.

“Continued professional development is important, but it must not become another burden for teachers already facing immense workloads.

“Any induction programme must include protected time, fully funded substitute cover and a guarantee that participation will not add to teachers’ workloads.”

The intervention puts the practical delivery of the new programme under the spotlight, particularly how teachers will be expected to undertake additional professional learning alongside their classroom responsibilities.

Mr Burrows said concerns over workload extended beyond newly qualified staff and called for practical measures to reduce pressures across the profession.

“In schools across Northern Ireland, teachers consistently tell me that they need practical support from the Department and the Education Authority: relief from bureaucracy, proper support when they are injured at work, and the time and space to do what they do best, teach.

“If we are serious about retaining the next generation of teachers, we must provide them with the support they need alongside the best possible training and professional development.”

New programme for early-career teachers

Education Minister Paul Givan launched the Northern Ireland Teacher Induction Online Platform on Thursday as part of the enhanced Teacher Induction Professional Learning Programme for 2026-27.

The platform will give newly qualified teachers access to learning resources and practical guidance during their first year in the profession.

The wider programme combines online learning modules with face-to-face courses and live webinars covering areas including literacy, numeracy, supporting children with Special Educational Needs, behaviour and classroom practice.

Mr Givan said:

“Today marks an important step in strengthening support for newly qualified teachers as they begin their professional careers.

“The first year of teaching is a significant milestone. While it is an exciting time, it can also bring new challenges and responsibilities. This enhanced programme will help new teachers develop the knowledge, skills and confidence they need to succeed in the classroom.

“By combining online learning, professional development opportunities and guidance from experienced colleagues, we are ensuring that newly qualified teachers have access to the support they need from the very beginning of their careers. Ultimately, this will help deliver the highest quality education for children and young people across Northern Ireland.”

Focus on teaching and learning

Online modules have been developed around four themes: the science of learning, adaptive teaching, maximising thinking and the science of literacy.

According to the Department of Education, the modules are informed by research evidence on effective teaching and learning and aligned with its TransformED priorities.

Mr Givan said the transition from teacher training into the classroom was a crucial point in a teacher’s career and also highlighted the role played by experienced staff in supporting new colleagues.

He said:

“The transition from initial teacher education into professional practice is a crucial stage in every teacher’s career. It is essential that our newest teachers feel supported as they develop their skills and gain experience in the classroom.

“I also want to thank school leaders and the experienced teacher tutors in schools across Northern Ireland who play such an important role in guiding and developing our newest teachers. Their commitment is central to building a highly skilled teaching profession and improving outcomes for all learners.”

The enhanced programme will operate during the 2026-27 academic year. Its practical impact for schools will depend not only on the training available, but on how newly qualified teachers are given the capacity to undertake it alongside the demands of their first year in the classroom.

Further information on the Teacher Induction Professional Learning Programme for 2026-27 is available from the Department of Education.