Ex-Jersey teacher highlights rising challenges

A teacher saw class sizes increase and "a slight increase in behaviour issues" while teaching in Jersey.

Mohammed Alamin, who worked in the island from 2021 to 2024, said while not unique to Jersey it was "quite difficult to deal with in terms of limited resources".

The government's Jersey Schools' and Colleges' Survey, found 62% of respondents said they had considered leaving their role in the last 12 months.

Education Minister Rob Ward said: "We want to be clear that we value our workforce highly and recognise the dedication and professionalism shown every day in supporting children and young people."

There were more than 600 respondents to the survey which represents about 28% of teaching staff across the island.

Mr Alamin said after returning to teach in Greater Manchester he had remained in touch with colleagues in the island and "there does seem to be some changes which is impacting their stress levels".

He said: "It is something that's happening everywhere, pressures in school, various pressures, both financial pressures and pressures of increasing class sizes."

Adrian Moss from National Education Union Jersey said there was "a real dilemma" for teachers because the report showed teachers enjoyed their jobs but "high levels of assault and verbal abuse" led to more anxiety.

Mr Moss said the union frequently saw teachers taking a step back from management roles or pausing their careers in the industry completely.

Deputy Ward said: "The department will now work closely with staff in schools to consider the survey findings and plan how we respond, ensuring that actions are informed by the voices of those working in education.

"Our intention is to conduct further surveys on a biennial basis to track progress."

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