Against a backdrop of an ever-faster-developing world, classrooms are becoming increasingly complex. The only way to stay abreast of a growing workload and keep on top of student issues is for teachers to seek out continuing professional development. This post explores the best courses for teachers, some within and some outside the Erasmus+ context.
Between the European-wide teacher shortages and compelling evidence that teaching is becoming more and more challenging, examining the underlying issues and finding solutions quickly must be a priority across all European member states. In 2023, 24 of the 27 EU member states reported a shortfall of teachers, with Sweden faring worst, estimating 150k teaching vacancies by 2035. The EU data paints a bleak picture, clearly flagging the overwhelming task-load and challenging nature of the teaching profession.
Not only is the profession failing to attract people in adequate numbers, but it is also losing quality educators in droves. A 2023 survey by the Irish Examiner found that 4 out of 10 teachers do not expect to be teaching 10 years later. A UK report found that one-third of newly qualified teachers left within the first five years. A myriad of reasons lie behind each decision to seek out a different career path.
The teaching profession has evolved rapidly over the past few decades. The scope of work and demands on educators are at an all-time high. According to 2023 research, the workload has not only increased but also grown ever more complex in and beyond the classroom.
Stress levels in teaching are considerably higher today. While these fundamental changes to the job role and scope may be tolerable in a context of adequate remuneration, salary levels haven't kept pace. As a result, a career in teaching no longer carries the lustre it once did.
When today's students weigh up a teaching career, they see a highly challenging path and little prospect of scaling a ladder or amassing wealth.
With job dissatisfaction in education a major issue across all member states, the EU has created a framework to support teachers. Training courses, resource sharing among member states, and EU-wide staff mobility programmes go some way toward delivering adequate support for teachers. Here are the cornerstones of the EU’s support:
Although the above supports address some of the issues, more action is required on the part of national education policymakers to improve working conditions and promote teacher well-being.
Professional development for teachers in the Erasmus+ sphere has proven very popular among European teachers. Not only do they experience a boost in confidence and motivation, but they also thrive in a collaborative environment. Here are some of the benefits which make teacher courses a game-changer:
Under Erasmus+, European teachers can participate in funded professional development programmes across Europe. A wide course selection ensures that every teacher finds a stimulating course and embarks on the professional development plan they had envisaged.
Our Academic Team has developed a course selection in collaboration with teachers from across Europe to deliver the tools and skills most needed today.
We have welcomed teachers from all corners of the bloc and watched them refine their skills and expand their network beyond their expectations. You can check out our course selection below:
📚Atlantic Centre of Education Courses
While teachers were in the spotlight in this post, professional development for education professionals is equally crucial. Third-level educators and administrative staff also benefit significantly from course participation.
Today’s European educators work more and more closely together, with professional development courses the best collaborative starting point for forging ahead.
At Atlantic, we are in the privileged position of witnessing how education professionals learn from each other, sow the seeds of collaboration, and go on to optimise learning outcomes for their students, which is ultimately every education professional's main goal.