Television screens could shortly be taking classes in Britain because of a shortage of teaching staff. Birmingham City Council announced last week that it was drawing up plans for some pupils to receive lessons via Internet video links.

Schools will be issued guidelines on how to set up Internet links between two classrooms and fitted with cameras and microphones, so that one teacher can cover both classes.

"This is not a case of replacing teachers; it is a matter of using existing technology to maximum advantage," a council spokeswoman said.