64,000 teachers in UK schools are not performing as effectively as they should, a new report has claimed.

A study commissioned by The Sutton Trust indicated that children could lose as much as half their marks in end of year tests as a result of being taught by a poor teacher.

“Two thirds of school budgets are for the costs of teachers and the achievement of pupils is largely determined by the quality of teachers," commented Sir Peter Lampl, Chairman of the Sutton Trust. The single most important way to improve the UK’s international performance is to improve the quality of its 400,000 or so teachers. We believe that this can be achieved by giving teachers the right support, training and incentives and it is absolutely essential that this be carried forward.”

According to the charity, removing the bottom 10 per cent (about 40,000) of these underperforming teachers could lead to sharp improvements in the UK's international ranking, TES Connect reports. Currently, the UK is ranked in 21^st and 22^nd position for reading and maths respectively, yet some officials believe that if action is taken, the home nations could reach third and fifth within 10 years.

Researchers from the London School of Economics and Stanford University in the United States, estimated that in a year, between 25 and 45 per cent could be added to an average pupil’s performance in a mathematics exam if they had an effective teacher. After studying the link between teaching performance and classroom examinations, they commented:

“The effects of high quality teaching are especially large for pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds, who gain an extra year’s worth of learning under very effective teachers compared to poorly performing teachers.”

However, many believe that teachers need more support ratther than being removed.

Julian Stanley, Chief Executive of Teacher Support Network said: “While there will always be a minority of employees who do not meet the required standards in any profession, given that teaching is a uniquely challenging profession it is hardly surprising that some staff struggle, but what kind of support do teachers get if they are failing?"

"At Teacher Support Network we regularly receive calls on our Support Line from teachers who are struggling in the classroom, but cannot find the appropriate professional support they require. Some are dealing with issues personally or at home, while others have difficulty navigating relationships with parents. Many are afraid to ask for help and some senior management teams find it difficult or can be anxious addressing areas of concern at an early stage."

As a result, Teacher Support Network now offers its own support to these teachers through factsheets, online coaching sessions and Support Lines.

We have found that some of the teachers who have been labelled as ‘bad’ are simply lacking skills and experience. With advice from one of our trained coaches, these teachers have often been able to identify how they can take a pro-active role in improving their skills and gaining the confidence to seek support. Many can go on to have very successful, rewarding careers in education."

Brian Lightman, General Secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL) commented: "We do not have vast numbers of incompetent teachers. Now more than ever before, we have the best teachers teaching in our schools, and where there is underperformance Heads will be aware of it much more."

Dr Mary Bousted, General Secretary of the Association of Teachers and Lecturers (ATL) said that the issue is less about sacking bad teachers and more to do with 'supporting and retraining them through professional development'.

Are you worried you are lacking skills or confidence? Would you like to talk to one of our trained coaches in complete confidence? Call our free Support Line on 08000 562 561 (England) or 08000 855 088 (Wales).

Alternatively, if you are looking for ways to expand upon your skills or are looking for tips on coping under pressure during exam time, have a look at our related factsheets:

• Tips on coping with exam pressure
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