Commenting as the government today publishes its response to its consultation on the establishment of the School Support Staff Negotiating Body (SSSNB), Paul Whiteman, general secretary of school leaders' union NAHT, said:

"School support staff make a vital contribution to pupils, schools and families, and deserve a pay and conditions framework that helps recruit and retain the skilled workforce schools need.

"We also welcome the recognition that school business leaders and other senior strategic leaders should not fall within the scope of the School Support Staff Negotiating Body (SSSNB). These are leadership roles with significant strategic and operational responsibilities, and it is right that this is reflected in the arrangements that apply to them.

"However, exclusion from the SSSNB must not leave them in limbo. NAHT believes school business leaders should be recognised as part of the wider school leadership team, with pay and conditions aligned to leadership structures. The government must now work urgently with the profession to develop a clear and coherent framework for school business leaders and other senior strategic leaders.

"Exclusion without a destination is not a solution."