A teacher who allegedly slapped a young boy was allowed straight back into the classroom.

Education Minister Anne Tolley has told principals they should stop talking to the media and focus on implementing the controversial national standards.

Teachers who were sacked or quit over alarming conduct remained registered to teach on the official database that is supposed to warn parents and schools.

Three-quarters of teachers are feeling unprepared and rushed as they work to implement national standards, a survey has found.

Five teachers disciplined for offences ranging from sex with students to watching porn in a classroom have had their identities protected.

Prime Minister John Key revealed yesterday that he has had a vasectomy, providing a new slant on questions about Budget cuts.