These regulations come into force from September 2008. They will replace the current regulations, and follow a public consultation undertaken by the Department for Children, Schools and Families. This consultation sought views on proposals to amend some aspects of teachers' induction and clarify, update and consolidate existing regulations and guidance. New guidance will be issued to accompany the regulations early in the summer term.

The new regulations will:

• enable further education institutions to host induction for newly qualified teachers if they wish, providing institutions comply with regulations and guidance
• provide a clearer, more flexible and up-to-date definition of the induction
• allow the appropriate body (the body responsible for making the final decision on induction) to shorten the induction period in certain circumstances (as outlined in the regulations) by up to 29 days
• allow the General Teaching Council for England one extra day to communicate a decision on an appeal
• remove the requirement to complete induction within five years of starting the induction period

The new regulations can be accessed on the Office of Public Sector Information website.

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