Skip to content

Portuguese Teachers' Job Satisfaction Hides High Stress and Attrition Rates

Despite high job satisfaction, Portuguese teachers face major stress factors. Addressing these issues could boost retention and educational quality.

This Image is clicked in a classroom where there is a blackboard on the right side and women is...
This Image is clicked in a classroom where there is a blackboard on the right side and women is writing on that blackboard. There are Windows in the middle. There is a light on the top. There are tables and chairs, on the table there are books ,water bottles and on the chairs children are sitting near that tables.

Portuguese Teachers' Job Satisfaction Hides High Stress and Attrition Rates

A survey reveals that 66% of Portuguese teachers initially chose teaching as their career. Despite this, 79% cite excessive administrative work and accountability for student performance as major stress factors. The profession faces high attrition rates, particularly among young teachers, with 27% considering leaving within five years.

Portugal's teacher workforce is among the most satisfied globally, with 94% expressing contentment. However, only 13% agree with their salaries, and just 39% are satisfied with their employment terms. The high stress levels and health impacts, coupled with teacher shortages in key subjects like English, Portuguese, and Geography, especially in Lisbon, contribute to the problem. Overwork and unfilled classes exacerbate the situation, potentially leading to unequal education in challenging classrooms. To improve retention, working conditions must be enhanced, support and resources increased, and workloads addressed.

While Portuguese teachers show high job satisfaction, poor employment terms, low salaries, and excessive workloads drive many, especially young teachers, to consider leaving. Addressing these issues could enhance retention, professional loyalty, and ultimately, educational quality for all students.

Read also:

Latest