What’s it like to be a teacher in Jersey? Government survey to find out

Thursday 14 September 2017

A survey quizzing teachers over pay, pupils and classroom life has been launched today – a year after it was revealed that nearly one in five were not satisfied with their current role.

The island-wide Teachers’ Survey, which will target all island schools, aims to follow up on last year’s results to see if any improvements have been made.

Around 500 teachers – roughly 45% of the workforce – responded to the last survey, which will feature many of the same questions as the new one for comparison.

The June 2016 version, which came in the midst of a battle between unions and ministers, showed that pay and workplace conditions were among the highest concerns for the island’s educational staff. 

As many as a third rated basic administration as among the most burdensome tasks they were required to carry out, while ‘pressure to get results’ was given as the aspect of the job that teachers are most concerned about.

Pictured: 'Pressure to get results' was previously listed as the aspect of the job that most teachers are concerned about.

Chief Education Officer Justin Donovan said that the results would allow the Education Department to learn how they can better support teaching staff.

“Motivated, positive teachers are the essential ingredient in a successful education system. Their views are important to us. If they are facing particular problems, then we need to know so that we can start making improvements. We had an excellent response rate last time and I hope even more of our teachers will take part and complete this survey,” he commented.

Education Minister Deputy Rod Bryans added: “We care deeply about our teachers and their wellbeing, and this questionnaire opens a direct line of communication where they can provide their views and have an influence on the future of their profession in Jersey. Most importantly, any improvements for teachers should lead to an even more successful educational experience for the young people they look after.”