‘Gig economy’ may damage workforce

Easter week is traditionally teachers’ unions conference time. It’s somewhat unusual that the various trade union groups representing a particular profession would have a particular focus season, largely driven by the school calendar. 

But, the teaching profession is unusual and, as the years progress, is becoming more unusual — at least in terms of how it is organised and rewarded compared to many other professions.

The trend in employment over the last few years has been away from the permanent and pensionable model associated with teaching and, for that matter, most other civil service and public sector jobs.