Rules to be relaxed for foreign teachers to work in schools in England

Change will allow teachers around the world with equivalent qualifications and experience to apply for jobs

Qualified teachers from any country in the world will be able to work in schools in England if they have equivalent credentials and at least one year's classroom experience, ministers have said.

The change, which comes into force next near, will open up opportunities for teachers from countries outside the 39 where teaching qualifications are currently recognised, which include across Europe, the United States, Canada and Australia. Until now, teachers from other countries had to pay to retrain before they could teach in English schools.

The schools minister Robin Walker said: The expertise we draw upon shouldn't be limited by geographical location," and that he wanted England to be the most attractive place in the world to be a teacher - that means world-class training, high standards and crucially, opportunity."

Early career teachers will receive the same induction period as teachers in England, including reduced timetables and access to a mentor and development. They will need to have completed teacher training of the same academic standard as in England, including holding a university degree, and be required to demonstrate proficient English.