Our reforms are a promise for teachers, not a threat. A promise of an immediate salary uplift of 2,000 a year for those who meet the standards next year - with the chance to earn much more through good performance. This is a something for something deal. It is on top of the annual pay awards. Schools will have the extra funds to pay for it.
Parents are vital to the education of their children.
This year, we are working to provide them with more information and support than ever before. Most parents want to back their children's education - and more are doing so than ever before. New curriculum guides, home school agreements and improved information on local schools are all part of a substantial package to recognise the role that parents can play. But Conference, parents have a responsibility too, from the very earliest years. We will work to help them, but we will get tough too with those who make life tough for our teachers.