Posted on 23/11/2015 by David Owen

Targets for the number of new trainee teachers in England have been missed for the third year running, prompting concerns of an intensified recruitment crisis in schools.

This year, 28,148 graduates began initial teacher training courses, representing 94% of the target figure.

At secondary level, where population increases are set to hit schools next year, just 82% of the target was met.

Ministers said they had redoubled their efforts to attract top graduates.

But head teachers and academics say there is no doubt the existing recruitment crisis is going to intensify in the next academic year.

'Standing army'