Mathematicians have become the latest group eligible for scholarships of up to #163;20,000 if they train as teachers, the government has announced.
Those already eligible for the maximum bursary payout include trainee physics and chemistry teachers.
Trainees with first class and 2:1 degrees can apply to their relevant subject associations for the money. The new maths bursaries are separate from standard Department for Education support for high-flying graduates.
A total of 150 new maths bursaries will be available, which will give trainees support from subject associations and free access to journals and conferences. Applicants will have to pass a subject knowledge test.
“We want the brightest and the best graduates with a strong mathematics background to join the profession. These scholarships will help us to do this,” said Charlie Taylor, chief executive of the Teaching Agency, which oversees teacher training.
The aim is to increase the number of top maths graduates who choose to become teachers. Currently, 62 per cent of those training in the subject have a 2:1 degree or higher, up from 51 per cent in 2010-11.
Training bursaries by degree class, 2013-14
Physics, chemistry, maths
First #163;20,000
2:1 #163;15,000
2:2 #163;12,000
Modern languages
First #163;20,000
2:1 #163;15,000
2:2 #163;12,000
Primary maths specialist
First #163;11,000
2:1 #163;6,000
Other priority subjects*, secondary and primary
First
#163;9,000
2:1
#163;4,000
* Other priority secondary subjects include English, geography, history, computer science, Latin, Greek, music, biology and PE.
A 25 per cent premium will be paid on bursaries to School Direct trainees whose training is based in a school where more than 35 per cent of pupils are eligible for free school meals.
