Heavier workload increases teachers’ stress

Teachers are working well over 40 hours per week before counting any unpaid duties done by thousands at second-level schools, a union survey has found.

The Association of Secondary Teachers Ireland (ASTI) said a rising workload, described as unacceptable by 74% of those who responded to its survey, is contributing to increased stress and falling job satisfaction.

Although workload is not the direct subject of any motions at ASTI’s annual convention in Cork next week, some of the recent education initiatives contributing to it are among the themes.