The national Training and Development Agency for School(TDA) has commented on the introduction of the new advanced teaching degree which will be undertaken by teachers within the first five years of their careers.

Graham Holley, chief executive of the Training and Development Agency for Schools said: "The radical, new Masters in Teaching and Learning will give us the chance to make a dramatic contribution to further improving the high quality of our teachers. This programme is part of a long term vision to transform teaching through structured, high quality, practice-based professional development.

"This development will help to support the teaching profession to become one that is recognised the world over for its consistency in delivering to the highest standards for every child in every school.

"The TDA is delighted to lead on the delivery of this important new policy. With the help of social partners, we will build on our strong achievements in increasing teacher recruitment to record levels and improve the quality of training to the best-ever."