While enrolment numbers for education degrees are rising, an Australian study published in the Australian Educational Researcher came out with an alarming statistic showing around 30-50% of teachers are leaving the education system after 5 years. Among these are teachers who have been described as ‘highly engaged’ with a ‘deep personal and moral commitment to education’. So why are they leaving?
According to the study, the main reasons for leaving the industry are reforms that have increased excessive surveillance and higher levels of performativity, both of which have further added to teachers’ already unmanageable workloads and negatively impacted their professional identities. Additionally, there has also been a failure to understand the complexities of the learning, behavioural and social needs of students in today’s age. These systemic pressures are leading to burnout, and we are witnessing the departure of exactly the kinds of passionate educators the system needs most.
Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged and excessive stress. It can involve feelings of depletion, a loss of purpose, and a sense of betrayal when one’s values or professional identity are compromised. For those questioning why highly engaged teachers are leaving the profession, this may provide a clearer answer.
While there are strategies available to build resilience and reduce burnout, it’s crucial to first acknowledge the deeper systemic issues at play. Resilience is important, but it cannot be expected to compensate for structural problems within the profession. Nevertheless, the individual benefits of resilience, such as emotional regulation, adaptability, and effective coping strategies, should not be underestimated. Studies show that burnout and resilience are closely intertwined, with individuals who possess higher levels of resilience also exhibiting lower levels of burnout. Additionally, resilience has been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress. In an often stressful and fast-paced environment, here are a few ways we can we foster a greater sense of resilience:
- Prioritising self-compassion: Allowing space for imperfection and recognising that we cannot do everything.
- Setting boundaries: Protecting time for rest and personal life is critical, even in a demanding profession.
- Building supportive networks: Connecting with trusted colleagues, mentors, or professional communities can provide emotional support and practical advice.
- Engaging in reflective practice: Taking time to reflect on our values, achievements, and challenges can reinforce purpose and perspective.
- Seeking professional support: Accessing counselling or coaching services can help process stress and develop healthy coping strategies.
Resilience is a crucial factor to protect against burnout, but we cannot solely ask teachers to ‘be more resilient’. Our education system must evolve to support, sustain, and empower them so they can continue doing the essential work of educating future generations.
If we know what is driving passionate educators out of the profession, how long can we afford to ignore it?