Union says 7000 teachers needed to avoid crowding in classrooms

An unfolding teacher shortage could force overcrowding in Queensland’s classrooms unless more than 7000 educators are added to the state’s workforce.

A LOOMING teacher shortage could force overcrowding in classrooms unless more than 7000 educators are added to the state’s workforce.

The Queensland Teachers’ Union has warned upwards of 10,000 educators are needed within five to 10 years if the state is to ward off a crisis.

“Without intervention, Queensland will face a crisis, there’s no doubt about that,” president Kevin Bates said.

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Sweeteners such as waiving HECS debts should be considered as ways to boost the workforce, Mr Bates said.

While the number of state school teachers has increased – from 47,831 in 2015 to 51,478 in 2018 – Mr Bates said rigorous campaigning was needed.

Young teacher graduate Jackie Reyes at Mueller College – 10,000 educators like her are needed within 5-10 years if the state is to ward off a crisis. Picture: Jamie Hanson

Independent Schools Queensland executive director David Robertson also acknowledged the shortfall, claiming it required a multifaceted and co-ordinated statewide response that included career guidance at schools.

“Ensuring Queensland has a healthy pipeline of new teachers, be these young graduates or mature career-change professionals, is in the best interests of all Queensland schools,” he said.

The number of state school teachers employed in 2019 will not be finalised until week two of term one, but a Department of Education spokeswoman said more than 1000 would be hired this year as part of a four-year 3700 extra teacher commitment.

Education Minister Grace Grace said the Government was working with the Queensland College of Teachers, QTU and universities to raise the standing of the teaching profession.

“With a starting salary of approximately $70,000, our beginning teachers are paid higher than many other graduates,” she said.

Mr Bates said there was no alternative to the teacher shortage – numbers had to grow immediately.

“The only other alternative is you get a massive increase in class sizes and that will lead to a massive attrition,” he said.

Shadow education spokesman Jarrod Bleijie said reducing or waiving HECS debts wasn’t the answer.

“We should be looking at reasons why teachers are leaving the profession.”