IN a bid to attract teachers to Essex schools, resettlement grants are being offered to qualified professionals from outside the county.

The grants form part of Essex County Council’s drive to fill vacancies across Essex schools.

High property prices in Essex mean the county can be at a disadvantage in recruiting school staff.

Valerie Metcalfe, deputy county councillor for education and lifelong learning, says: "We have to face the fact we are in a competitive situation when it comes to recruiting teachers.

"Teachers in the NQT category (newly qualified teachers with 12 months experience, or less) may be eligible for a resettlement grant of up to £750, including VAT. Those moving to Essex to take up a leadership post in a secondary school or a special school with secondary age pupils, may be eligible to claim up to £1,500."

  • For more details, e-mail teaching@essex.gov.uk