Owing to the reported shortage in teachers, Birmingham City Council are attempting to deliver lessons to their pupils via the internet using video links.

The Council are hoping that with their existing video conferencing facilities that they can teach more than one class at any time. They do not intend to see the school operating at a reduced working week, however owing to agencies providing supply teachers being clearly stretched they do not want to see any of their children being sent home because of a lack of teaching staff.

A Council spokesperson also stated that they do not intend replacing teachers with technology, they just wish to put into best use what technology they have.

Areas where they have found this type of technology useful is in the teaching of languages and activities involving debates just as useful. The authority are also issuing guidance to schools on how to set up the internet links between the classrooms using cameras and microphones.