The teacher shortage crisis is growing
The teacher shortage crisis is growing, with the government’s goal of recruiting 6,500 new teachers becoming more challenging (NFER). The issue is not just about numbers but the real impact on students and teachers’ mental health as they try to keep the system functioning.
The Root of the Crisis
A major contributor to this crisis is the heavy workload teachers face. On average, teachers work 52.4 hours a week, far beyond their contracted hours (National Education Union). This leads to burnout, anxiety, and depression, causing many to leave the profession. According to Education Support UK, 78% of teachers and 84% of school leaders report high stress levels. This stress not only affects staff morale but also impacts student outcomes.
When teachers are overworked, their ability to teach effectively is compromised, and this can lead to inconsistencies in teaching quality, as schools increasingly rely on supply staff. Larger class sizes and subject cuts due to staffing shortages only add to the problem.
More Than Just Money
While pay rises and financial incentives are steps in the right direction, they don’t address the root causes of the crisis (BBC). Teachers need more than just financial incentives; systemic change is required. Workload, working conditions, and mental health support must be prioritised.
Change must start with school culture. Teachers need to feel valued, supported, and heard. Mental health support must be embedded in school policies, staff training, and leadership approaches. Flexible working options and better pastoral care are essential for making teaching a sustainable career.
Supporting Teacher Wellbeing
A study by Leeds Beckett University explored how teacher wellbeing impacts pupil progress in primary schools. Here are a few key strategies:
Personal Wellbeing Strategies for Teachers:
- Set Boundaries: Limit work outside school hours and prioritise personal time.
- Stay Active: Engage in exercise, meditation, or hobbies to maintain balance.
- Seek Support: Connect with colleagues, friends, or professional counselling services.
- Manage Stress: Practice mindfulness techniques.
School-Based Strategies for Leaders:
- Reduce Staff Workload: Simplify planning and cut unnecessary admin tasks.
- Create a Supportive Culture: Foster open discussions about mental health and wellbeing.
- Implement a Buddy System: Pair staff members for peer support.
- Encourage Flexibility: Offer wellbeing afternoons and allow flexible working arrangements- for example, PPA time at home.
By integrating these strategies into daily school life, schools can create a more positive environment. However, teachers must first protect their own wellbeing. It’s like the airplane oxygen mask analogy—secure your own mask first. If we don’t take care of ourselves, we can’t support others.
The Way Forward
The teacher shortage crisis is not just a numbers game—it’s about wellbeing within schools. Systemic reforms need to be more effective to make teaching a profession where educators can thrive and not just survive. Until that happens, we must advocate for better conditions, support each other, and prioritise mental health. Only by taking care of ourselves can we continue to give our best to our students.
References
Clarke, V. (2025, March 13). Act “now or never” to hit 6,500 teachers target, report warns. BBC News. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cgm1nwmm144o
Education Support Teacher Wellbeing Index 2024. (2024). In Education Support. https://www.educationsupport.org.uk/media/ftwl04cs/twix-2024.pdf
Glazzard, J., & Rose, A. (2019). The impact of teacher wellbeing and mental health on pupil progress in primary schools. Leeds Beckett University. https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/carnegie-school-of-education/research/carnegie-centre-of-excellence-for-mental-health-in-schools/school-mental-health-network/
National Foundation for Educational Research. (n.d.). Teacher Labour Market in England Annual Report 2025. NFER. https://www.nfer.ac.uk/publications/teacher-labour-market-in-england-annual-report-2025/
State of education: workload and wellbeing. (2024, April 3). National Education Union. https://neu.org.uk/latest/press-releases/state-education-workload-and-wellbeing
By Danielle Chandler
21/3/2025