Moray’s cut allocation of teachers has resulted “several vacancies” which will impact secondary education

A cut allocation of teachers has hit secondary education and left “several vacancies” in schools.

Moray Council welcomed 40 newly-qualified teachers to the area this summer - down on the 57 that arrived last year and the 78 that arrived in 2022.

The council confirmed that their allocation was slashed and that education will be impacted.

A Moray Council spokesperson said: “We requested a similar number of newly-qualified teachers (NQTs) as we did last year.

“However, our allocation has been less than in previous years, particularly impacting secondary education.

“This has resulted in several vacancies that we still need to fill.”

Of this year’s cohort, 26 are primary teachers and 14 are secondary teachers.

In addition, 38 teachers from last year have continued to remain in Moray. This is down on 41 in 2023 and 47 in 2022.

Moray Council’s head of education, Vivienne Cross, said: “Welcoming 40 newly-qualified teachers to our schools is a wonderful way to start the new term.

“These teachers bring fresh perspectives that will benefit our students greatly.

“It’s also wonderful to see so many of last year’s teachers staying on with us, continuing to contribute to our educational landscape.

“I wish all our teachers, new and returning, a successful and rewarding year ahead.

“We look forward to providing the best education for Moray’s learners.”