SECOND LEVEL teachers work an average of 46 hours a week – though they are only paid for 22 hours, according to a new survey.
The Behaviour Attitudes survey on behalf of the Teachers’ Union of Ireland (TUI) also indicates a dramatic decline in discipline.
Some 80 per cent of teachers say discipline and conflict issues are increasing, distracting from the core business of teaching and learning.
The TUI says teachers are working harder than ever – but the profession has been demoralised by pay cuts and cutbacks in schools.
Yesterday, the TUI executive voted to reject the public service reform deal. The union leadership said it would also recommend rejection of the deal at next week’s annual conference in Ennis, Co Clare.
Key findings of the new survey include:
- Teachers work on average between 43 and 46 hours a week during term time;
- 81 per cent indicate that discipline problems now take up considerable time;
- 87 per cent report an increase in the carrying out of administrative duties over last five years;
- 72 per cent felt that supporting special needs students had increased their workload in the last five years;
- 48 per cent under the age of 35 and 45 per cent of teachers between 35 and 44 are involved in extra-curricular sports activities.
TUI general secretary Peter MacMenamin said the survey findings come as no surprise to the union.
“Teaching is in many ways a demoralised profession in 2010. 1,200 teachers have lost their jobs at second level alone as a result of the education cutbacks. Pay has been reduced by up to 20 per cent when the pension levy, pay cut and non-payment of an agreed increase are factored in.
“Resources to schools have been cut, promotional opportunities have been eliminated by a block on appointments, while a marked increase in disruption problems as a result of a rapidly changing social climate means teachers are working harder than ever.”
On average, teachers are spending 24 hours per week working outside of timetabled-teaching hours. For a teacher on full 22 hours this equates to a 46-hour week.
Overall, 35 per cent of teachers are involved in sports. The survey also shows that many more are involved in drama and debating.