Teacher Wellbeing Hits Pandemic-Low Amid Budget Crisis
The latest 2023 Tes School Wellbeing Report reveals grim news for UK schools. Despite hopes of recovery, teachers are no happier now than during the pandemic’s darkest days. Budget cuts, soaring workloads, and stagnant pay fights have pushed staff morale to breaking point.
Key Shocking Findings From the Report
- Only 18% of teachers say their workload is manageable — unchanged from last year.
- Nearly two thirds (61%) feel their school is badly underfunded.
- 43% admit they lack the resources needed to do their job properly.
- More than half (51%) feel voiceless about how their schools are run, up from 49% last year.
These alarming stats highlight how budget constraints, driven worse by the energy crisis and rising costs, are battering staff wellbeing. This gloom fuels a worsening teacher recruitment and retention crisis. It’s clear: supporting teachers now is more critical than ever.
But There’s a Silver Lining: Teachers Still Love Their Jobs
Despite the hardships, teachers remain fiercely dedicated. Over 58% say they feel confident in their roles — a rise from 54% last year. The report shows students continue to be at the heart of teachers’ work and pride in schools remains strong.
How Schools Are Fighting Back to Boost Staff Wellbeing
- 63% of schools use wellbeing surveys to check on staff health.
- Half provide wellbeing resources to support their teams.
- 32% have invested in staff development programs.
- Workload relief tactics: 49% have cut marking, 34% streamlined meetings, and 32% adopted behaviour management tech.
Experts Sound the Alarm
Grainne Hallahan, Senior Education Analyst at Tes: “Teacher wellbeing is stuck in a rut. Mounting workload, budget crises, and pay unrest are driving teachers away. But when schools get working conditions right, teaching remains rewarding. Teachers are proud, supported by colleagues, and cherish positive relationships with pupils — but only if the right conditions are met.”
Sinéad Mc Brearty, CEO of Education Support: “School staff face chronic stress and burnout amid soaring demands and dwindling resources. Without tackling these systemic issues, we risk losing the talented teachers young people desperately need.”
Richard Tutt, Director of Secondary Education, Astrea Academy Trust: “Recruitment and retention crises are real. Prioritising teacher wellbeing is essential if we want to keep great educators and boost pupil success. Teacher wellbeing is directly linked to student achievement.”
Ben Gibbs, Wellbeing Lead at Tranquiliti: “Wellbeing issues are complex and systemic, affecting staff and students alike. Smart tech can identify problems early and help create practical solutions. Teachers must feel secure and confident to provide the safe learning spaces students need.”
The Verdict: Teachers Are Stretched But Still Standing Strong
The 2023 Tes School Wellbeing Report exposes a teaching profession caught in a brutal tug-of-war. Systemic funding cuts and increasing workloads push staff towards breaking point and potential career exits. Yet, unwavering dedication to pupils and pride in teaching keep many committed. The message is clear: to save our schools, teacher wellbeing must be given top priority — now.
