Tories' 'elitist' teaching system - graduate jobs

Tory leader David Cameron has pledged to transform the teaching system using "brazenly elitist" measures which will entice the most talented graduates into education.

Mr Cameron unveiled his plans as part of the Conservatives' draft education manifesto in which he promised to cut the amount of red tape involved when "career changers" switch from an established professional position into teaching.

He said a "one stop shop" system would be implemented to smooth the transition from private to public sector, adding that current graduate incentives pioneered by the Government, such as paying off student loans of those with science and maths qualifications, would be axed under Tory plans.

The Government has rounded on Mr Cameron's proposals, claiming that budget cuts would result in teacher lay-offs.

Speaking at a south London school, Mr Cameron said he was "committed to a comprehensive programme of reform to elevate the status of teaching in our country."

Mr Cameron warned: "If you're a 20-something or 30-something who has made it in another career but fancy giving teaching a go, the bureaucratic-odds are stacked against you."