Avoiding Burnout: Wellbeing Tips for QTS Teachers

Being a QTS teacher is an incredibly fulfilling profession that inspires and shapes future generations. However, it’s also one of the most demanding careers, requiring immense mental and physical energy. The perception of teaching as an easy job, complete with holidays and short hours, often overlooks the significant pressures faced by those with Qualified Teacher Status. According to research from the National Education Union, about 46% of teachers reported considering leaving the profession due to burnout and mental health concerns. The burdens on educators, including accountability, heavy workloads, and the societal roles we play, can lead to burnout for both new and experienced teachers.

Understanding Occupational Burnout

Burnout isn't just a phase of stress; it's the result of sustained pressure that never relents. It arises from prolonged intensity and excessive demands on your energy and resources. Coined by Herbert Freudenberger in the 1970s, the term describes the condition that affects those who commit deeply to their work, particularly in high-responsibility roles like teaching.
With alarming statistics highlighting the mental health crisis in education, it's clear why so many QTS teachers are considering leaving the profession. For instance, 78% of teachers reported feeling stressed in the 2023 Teacher Wellbeing Index, and 89% experienced symptoms of poor mental health due to their work. Furthermore, only 34% of teachers feel their employer is actively supporting their wellbeing.

What Usually Causes Burnout in Teachers?

Burnout in teachers can be attributed to several factors, making it common in the profession:

• High Workload: Teachers often juggle lesson planning, grading, administrative tasks, and extracurricular responsibilities. The sheer volume of work can feel overwhelming, leading to exhaustion. The Department for Education indicated that teachers work an average of 50 hours a week, significantly higher than the average for other professions in the UK.
• Accountability Pressures: The education system places heavy emphasis on student outcomes, often resulting in high stakes testing and accountability measures. This pressure can create a relentless cycle of stress.
• Emotional Labour: Teaching requires significant emotional investment. Educators often find themselves managing their own emotions while also supporting students through challenges. This emotional labour can be draining over time.
• Lack of Support: Many teachers feel isolated in their roles, lacking adequate support from school leadership or resources. This absence of support can exacerbate feelings of burnout.
• Work-Life Imbalance: Teachers frequently struggle to balance their professional responsibilities with personal life. The difficulty in setting boundaries often leads to extended work hours and a lack of time for self-care.
• Societal Expectations: Educators are expected to fulfil various roles, from mentors to caregivers, all while maintaining academic standards. This added societal pressure can contribute to feelings of inadequacy and burnout.
  
  

Recognising the Signs of Burnout

Understanding the symptoms of burnout is crucial. Here are three main signs to look out for:

• Exhaustion: This can manifest as chronic fatigue, mood swings, irritability, and even physical symptoms like headaches and gastrointestinal issues. It's essential to pay attention to these signs before they escalate.
• Detachment: A sense of cynicism or pessimism about teaching, students, or colleagues can indicate burnout. If you find yourself avoiding contact with others or losing enjoyment in activities that once brought you joy, it may be time to reassess your wellbeing.
• Reduced Performance: Feelings of hopelessness, increased irritability, and a drop in productivity can signal burnout. If tasks that once felt manageable now seem overwhelming, this is a sign you need to take action.
  
  

12 Tips for Avoiding Burnout

1. Set Boundaries Between Work and Personal Life: Clear boundaries are crucial to maintaining a healthy balance. Make a conscious effort to switch off from work once your working day is over. This could include not checking emails after a certain time or setting designated 'off' times during weekends and holidays.
2. Practice Mindfulness and Stress Relief Techniques: Regular mindfulness exercises, such as deep breathing, yoga, or simple relaxation techniques, can reduce stress and keep you grounded amidst a busy schedule.
3. Develop a Strong Network: Building a support network of fellow teachers or mentors can provide a valuable outlet. Sharing experiences and offering encouragement can help alleviate feelings of isolation and overwhelm.
4. Prioritise Your Physical and Mental Health: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle through balanced nutrition, exercise, and sufficient sleep is crucial to your wellbeing. Ensure you're taking care of both your mind and body.
5. Evaluate New Responsibilities: As a QTS teacher, you might feel compelled to take on extra duties or initiatives. Before accepting additional tasks, consider their impact on your workload and student outcomes. Ask yourself if it’s truly necessary and beneficial.
6. Seek Professional Development: Engaging in professional development can provide you with fresh perspectives and tools to improve classroom management and reduce stress. This can also rekindle your passion for teaching by reminding you why you started in the first place.
7. Foster a Positive Classroom Environment: Creating an encouraging and supportive environment in your classroom can make your workday feel more rewarding. A positive space benefits both you and your students.
8. Stay Connected to Your “Why” in Teaching: Remembering your passion for teaching and the reasons you entered the profession can help you stay grounded during stressful times. Take moments to reflect on your achievements and the impact you have on your students.
9. Learn to Say No: It’s perfectly acceptable to decline additional work or responsibilities. Saying no can protect your time and mental health. Weigh the impact of new tasks against your wellbeing and workload before agreeing to them.
10. Advocate for Reasonable Workload and Policies: Don’t hesitate to speak up about workload concerns or policies that negatively impact your wellbeing. Encouraging school leaders to review these aspects can benefit both staff and student outcomes.
11. Take Mental Health Days: If you feel you’re nearing burnout, don’t hesitate to take a day off to recharge. Just as physical health is important, so is mental health. Allow yourself the time to relax and recuperate when needed.
12. Seek Support: Don't hesitate to reach out for support. Whether it's friends, family, or professional services, talking about your feelings can provide relief. Many schools offer resources for mental health support, and there are helplines available for educators.
    
    

How Leaders Can Support Their QTS Teachers

Leaders play a pivotal role in fostering a supportive environment for QTS teachers. Here are some actionable ways to help your staff:

• Promote a Healthy Work Culture: Create an environment where wellbeing is a priority. Encourage open discussions about mental health and stress management. Recognise and celebrate the hard work of your staff to help them feel valued.
• Provide Professional Development: Offer training sessions that focus on time management, stress reduction, and mindfulness. Providing teachers with the tools to manage their workload effectively can help prevent burnout.
• Encourage Work-Life Balance: Promote policies that support a healthy work-life balance, such as flexible scheduling or the option to work remotely. Encourage staff to take their holidays and mental health days without guilt.
• Implement Regular Check-Ins: Schedule regular one-on-one meetings to discuss workload and wellbeing. This gives teachers a platform to voice concerns and seek support when needed.
• Foster Peer Support: Encourage collaboration among staff by creating support networks. Teachers can share experiences and strategies for managing stress, which fosters a sense of community.
• Lead by Example: Show your commitment to wellbeing by prioritising your own mental health. If leaders’ model healthy behaviours, staff are more likely to feel empowered to do the same.
  
  

Take the Next Step Towards Wellbeing

At Morgan Hunt, we understand the unique challenges faced by QTS teachers. That’s why we’re offering a Wellbeing Audit and Workshop, tailored specifically for educators. Our workshop will equip you with practical tools to manage stress, improve mental health, and enhance resilience in the classroom.

Let’s work together to ensure you not only survive but thrive in your teaching career. Contact Reece Pavani today at reece.pavani@morganhunt.com to learn more about how we can support your wellbeing journey. Your mental health matters, and you deserve the support to keep making a difference in your students' lives.