Abstract:
In many countries, research and policy interest in teachers’ work, health and wellbeing has drastically increased fuelled by concerns about the health and sustainability of the teaching profession (Hascher and Waber, 2021; OECD, 2020). Teachers working conditions, evaluations of their work and mental health have been reported as critical to teacher shortages, high levels of teacher attrition and difficulties attracting and retaining new teachers (Australian Government, 2023; Heffernan et al., 2022; Nguyen et al., 2019; Rahimi & Arnold, 2024). In response policymakers have developed policies, strategies and frameworks to promote teacher health and wellbeing (Australian Government, 2023; Viac & Fraser, 2020). This paper presents a comprehensive comparative analysis of the work, health, and wellbeing of teachers and school leaders across three countries: Ireland, New Zealand, and Australia.
Through a quantitative approach we analyse the work, health, and wellbeing of teachers and school leaders across Ireland, New Zealand, and Australia. The research utilises a database comprising responses from over 5,000 teachers and school leaders. Quantitative data was collected through structured surveys that measure various aspects of the psychosocial work environment, including working conditions, job satisfaction, and mental health status. Through this study we aim to provide a broad framework for the study of teacher wellbeing and understand the key issues regarding the health and sustainability of the profession in these contexts.
Through a quantitative approach we analyse the work, health, and wellbeing of teachers and school leaders across Ireland, New Zealand, and Australia. The research utilises a database comprising responses from over 5,000 teachers and school leaders. Quantitative data was collected through structured surveys that measure various aspects of the psychosocial work environment, including working conditions, job satisfaction, and mental health status. Through this study we aim to provide a broad framework for the study of teacher wellbeing and understand the key issues regarding the health and sustainability of the profession in these contexts.