My daughter is considering applying for a primary PGCE course starting in 2006. I have heard about problems some primary teachers are having finding a job; would you suggest she look elsewhere?

Competition for places on primary PGCE courses has been fierce in recent years despite the extra numbers that the Government made available.

However, this year there was a slight dip in applications for the first time, especially for courses at institutions located in Wales. There will be fewer places available in 2006 following government cutbacks so, unless the number of applications falls further, finding a place will be tough. If your daughter is offered a place and completes her PGCE, finding a teaching job is also likely to be tough in 2007. School rolls will still be falling in many parts of the country, but more teachers will be retiring so posts will become available. The problem is that the number of qualified teachers without work has been increasing. Many of these will still be looking for jobs when the next cohort qualifies. As in any such situation, where supply exceeds demand, some will be disappointed.

If you have a question for John Howson, please email susan.young@tes.co.uk