OVER 40 new teachers today start their classroom careers across Inverclyde.

A large intake of staff joined primaries and secondaries throughout the district this morning.

Forty-one probationary teachers were welcomed on board by Provost Martin Brennan, a former local school teacher himself, education convener Councillor Jim Clocherty, and Councillor Natasha Murphy, who is vice-convener of communities, at their final induction day at Inverclyde Academy on Tuesday before the schools started back this morning.

There are 27 primary and 14 secondary newly-qualified staff joining the ranks following the conclusion of their studies and a series of placements.

Councillor Clocherty said: "It's fantastic to see such a large intake of new teachers starting their careers here in Inverclyde.

"Last week we saw the pupils that got five As in their exams and who are going on to further education.

"We're keen to ensure every pupil succeeds and it's our teaching professionals who have the ability to change pupils' lives.

"It's also fantastic to see that so many of the new intake of teachers are homegrown and to see how enthusiastic they are for the journey ahead and we wish them every success."

Many of the new starts are heading into teaching straight from their own secondary and university education but a large number are also entering the classroom after embarking on a career change.

Councillor Murphy said: "It's important for children growing up in Inverclyde to have the best teachers they can and Inverclyde Council has a great record of employing people with quality.

"Nowadays, teaching isn't just about academia, it's about social and life skills and teaching kids to be the best citizens they can be and the fact we have so many from all different careers and backgrounds is a huge positive.

"They are role models showing that dreams can become a reality.

"I wish them all the best in their teaching careers."