ATL wants clearer education policies from candidates

Thu, 22 Sep 2011

The secretary of the Isle of Man Branch of the ATL education union is calling for election candidates to be clearer about their policies on the Island's schools.

Andrew Shipley, who also teaches at St Ninian's High School, says the education system is in for challenging times ahead following budget cuts.

He believes the only way future savings could be made would be through teaching cuts, which would limit the number of subjects offered to students, and increase class sizes.

Mr Shipley is appealing to candidates to declare that they will ensure standards are maintained in the Island's schools even where budgets are tight.

ATL would like to see nursery places for all children on the Island, recruitment of quality teachers and small class sizes.