TEACHERS in East Lancashire might boycott any government scheme which would involve their pay being calculated from their classroom performance.

A new appraisal scheme, which would involve teachers being paid by results, may well come into force in September.

But NUT leaders in East Lancashire say they won't hesitate to boycott the scheme if their colleagues across the country vote for such action.

Simon Jones, the union's secretary in Lancashire, said: "I have attended several meetings over recent weeks and teachers are justifiably angry about these divisive government proposals.

"Government imposition of such a system will not improve teacher morale or motivation.

"Our union has a long record of support for teacher appraisal. It should be used to support and influence professional development.

"It must not be threatening if it is to support professional development and improve quality of teaching.

"There is no doubt teachers in East Lancashire would resist any proposal which, by September 2000, would provide a link between appraisal and pay and include payment by results."

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