How schools can support their teachers
Teachers are the backbone of the education system, the people who shape the new generation’s young minds and instil lifelong habits. Although we can all agree that our school systems’ teachers are essential, the demands of the profession can be overwhelming, making it important for schools to implement strategies that support their teaching staff effectively.
From positioning professional development to promoting a positive school culture and offering mental health resources, schools can create an environment where educators can excel.
Prioritising professional development
Investing in professional development is one of the best ways to support teachers. Whether it’s pairing new teachers with mentors or supporting staff looking to further their own education through an M.Ed degree online or a similar program, there are many ways to support teachers’ professional development. Schools can offer regular training sessions, workshops, and access to postgraduate studies to ensure educators stay updated with the latest teaching methodologies and curriculum changes.
In Australia, government initiatives have recently been launched to provide employment-based teaching degrees, allowing education support staff to transition into full-time teaching roles while working in schools. These programs not only enhance teacher qualifications but also address the ongoing teacher shortages in rural and regional areas.
Promoting a positive school culture
A supportive school culture is one of the most important factors for teacher retention and job satisfaction. Schools must create an environment where collaboration, respect and inclusivity are prioritised. Encouraging open communication between staff and leadership, recognising achievements, and providing opportunities for peer support can significantly boost morale.
It’s a known fact that forming friendships within the workforce fuels motivation and encourages colleagues to ask each other for help. Ensuring our school environments promote trusting work relationships gives both teachers and students the support they need to do their best. Fostering work relationships built on mutual respect and appreciation is key to maintaining a positive culture for staff and students alike.
Education support staff also play a vital role in maintaining a positive school culture. Their contributions, ranging from administrative tasks to direct student engagement, help create a cohesive and collaborative atmosphere that benefits the entire school community. Schools should ensure that all staff members, including support personnel, feel valued and are included in decision-making processes.
Offering mental health and well-being resources
Teaching can be very emotionally demanding, and schools have to prioritise the well-being of their staff. Providing access to counselling services, stress management workshops, and wellness programs can help educators navigate the challenges of their profession.
In Victoria, policies have been developed to support education staff in classroom roles, ensuring they have the resources needed to maintain their well-being while improving student outcomes. Schools can implement work arrangements, mindfulness sessions, and peer support networks to help teachers manage stress the right way.
As uncovered by a 2024 study, one in four teachers feel unsafe in their classrooms, which shows the need for more well-being resources for teachers. Schools could implement training sessions to deal with physical violence issues in the classrooms, for example. This would allow teachers to feel more secure when dealing with difficult situations, as well as being able to handle them correctly and with the support of others.
Encouraging a work-life balance
One of the biggest issues with being a teacher is navigating a work-life balance, which is essential for a teacher’s overall well-being.
Schools should establish realistic workload expectations, minimise unnecessary administrative tasks and encourage teachers to take breaks when needed. Providing designated spaces for relaxation and ensuring that staff meetings and development sessions are scheduled thoughtfully would lead to a more balanced work environment.
Although it’s easier said than done, with examination papers taking time through holidays and SACs invading a teacher’s personal time after hours, understanding can go a long way. Feeling pressure from leaders despite open communication can contribute to feelings of anxiety and a lack of motivation. Supporting teachers through the hard parts of their job is what creates the best environment for an efficient school system.
Supporting teaching staff is not just about improving job satisfaction; it directly impacts students’ success and the overall effectiveness of the education system. Ensuring our teachers get the support they need will ensure emerging generations are well educated and have healthy work/life habits.
