Teacher attrition actually fell from 5.9% to 5.1% between 2009 and 2021. Yet schools still can't staff classrooms. How can both be true?
The Real Issue: Capacity, Not Numbers
A teacher managing 30 students while working 60-hour weeks cannot perform at the same level as a teacher with reasonable workload. The shortage "multiplies itself through diminished capacity."
Where Shortages Hit Hardest
- Disadvantaged schools: 66.9% of principals report shortages.
- Regional and rural areas: Remote schools struggle to attract staff.
- Specialist subjects: STEM positions remain vacant for extended periods.
What Would Actually Help
- Reduce administrative burden (up to 334 hours per teacher annually)
- Provide manageable workloads
- Support wellbeing
- Invest in early-career support
TeachPlan is designed to support teacher sustainability by reducing administrative burden and streamlining planning.