Teachers, too tired to thrive?
By Daniela Falecki, Educator, Speaker, Coach, Teacher Wellbeing
elements together, leading to a willingness to grow rather than merely surviving.
Is it possible for educators to thrive when demands are high and resources are low? This question has become increasingly relevant as funding cuts and rising demands in compliance and accountability are draining the life force out of teachers. According to the Teacher Wellbeing Report 2022 (TES AUST), the reality is stark:
Vitality is about feeling energized and zestful at work, living life fully. Learning involves acquiring or applying knowledge to build capability and confidence, adapting successfully, and developing oneself.
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Less than half of educators feel valued.
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Half of educators think their workload isn’t manageable.
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More than a third of educators wouldn’t recommend their school to friends.
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Only a quarter of educators feel like leadership makes good decisions.
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What does this mean for educators?
Daniela Falecki, Images courtesy of Teacher Wellbeing
What is thriving?
Thriving at work
Thriving is more than just surviving; it’s about flourishing. Imagine a plant full of vitality, adapting flexibly to weather conditions, and staying strong despite challenges. That’s thriving – an ongoing, dynamic state of growth and health.
Gretchen Spreitzer, a leading researcher on thriving at work, describes it as the opposite of burnout. It’s a psychological experience comprising vitality (energy) and learning (cognition). Thriving means experiencing both these
TEACHER’S DESK
Schools are not just learning institutions for students but for staff as well. Educators are constantly learning new things, which demands mental, social, and emotional energy. Without restoring this energy, we risk burnout. Educators who thrive experience growth and momentum, marked by a sense of vitality. It’s a feeling of energy, passion, and excitement. They are engaged and invested in what they do. They have a spark about them that has a ripple effect on those around them. Term 3, 2024 | school-news.com.au