A recent survey by Education Support has revealed alarming concerns about the wellbeing of teaching staff.
Peter Shreeve, Assistant District Secretary of the National Education Union, highlighted key findings from the Teacher Wellbeing Index.
Among the statistics, 82 per cent of the workforce reported that challenging behaviour by pupils had increased, significantly impacting their mental health and wellbeing.
Concerns extend beyond teachers
Mr Shreeve noted that while the index focuses on teachers, support staff are also likely to face similar challenges. Stress levels, deteriorating mental health and changing behaviour patterns among pupils and parents were among the key issues highlighted.
The lack of support from external agencies, compounded by insufficient funding for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and limited access to mental health specialists, are worsening the situation as needs continue to rise.
Local voices echo national trends
A teacher on the Isle of Wight recently described the pressures being felt in schools, saying,
“When workloads are high and constantly changing, we cannot provide what students need. Staff mental health is declining.
“We’re already exhausted and overwhelmed.
“In this situation, how can we provide essential support, when behaviour is worsening and overwhelmed teachers and senior staff can’t find the time?”
This sentiment reflects a broader pattern across the country, where increasing disruption in classrooms is linked to unmet emotional or learning needs, trauma and poverty.
Calls for urgent action
Mr Shreeve emphasised the need for quicker access to specialist SEND and mental health services. He also advocated for a more engaging curriculum and substantial measures to tackle child poverty, such as removing the two-child benefit cap and introducing free school meals for all children.
Without these interventions, the wellbeing of educators and the quality of education for students could face further decline.
