Recruitment for adult learning teaching posts in Luton is becoming increasingly difficult, while unfilled vacancies put strain on current staff, according to a report to the borough council’s overview and scrutiny board.
Empty posts within the curriculum support team have impacted negatively on staff as well, including teachers and managers coping with a reduced amount of help, said the report, which acknowledged staff recruitment has been “difficult for some years”.
It explained: “There are persistently high levels of economic inactivity in Luton above those of similar local authorities and the national average, particularly for people from ethnic and migrant backgrounds, women and anyone physically or mentally impaired.
“The priority areas of activity in 2023/24 were determined by national policy and local need. The strategic goal that the service was set by the council was to contribute to its Luton 2040 vision by:
ensuring residents take advantage of their Level two and three entitlement;
better equipping residents of all ages to get jobs;
working effectively with partner groups to ensure that the town’s most vulnerable residents are safe and supported;
cooperating efficiently with partner educational organisations to ensure that learners have a seamless skills pathway;
and supporting residents health and wellbeing.”
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson stated in a letter to the workforce in July that the sector is under severe financial pressure, added the report.
