Teacher Wellbeing Impacts Learning in Schools

Wellbeing for Schoolteachers, a study commissioned by International Baccalaureate (IB) and conducted by Wellbeing Research Centre at Oxford University, says that teacher wellbeing has a significant impact on the wellbeing and academic success of students. Consequently, teacher wellbeing should be one of the first factors schools consider when looking to improve wellbeing across the school community.

Teacher Wellbeing Impacts Learning in Schools

By Iminza Keboge
Published April 10, 2024

Wellbeing for Schoolteachers, a study commissioned by International Baccalaureate (IB) and conducted by Wellbeing Research Centre at Oxford University, says that teacher wellbeing has a significant impact on the wellbeing and academic success of students. Consequently, teacher wellbeing should be one of the first factors schools consider when looking to improve wellbeing across the school community.

Teachers report one of the highest levels of occupational stress and burnout on the job compared with other professions. Workload is a prominent factor leading teachers to leave the profession.

Based on the study, some of the key factors that positively impact teacher wellbeing include:

Teacher voice is crucial in designing any intervention to support wellbeing in a particular school context
Higher levels of teacher wellbeing are associated with positive relationships among colleagues, students, parents, and leadership; a positive school climate; and effective leadership support
Workplace recognition and continuing professional development are positively associated with teacher wellbeing.

Wellbeing for Schoolteachers, that provides policymakers and educational leaders an understanding of teacher wellbeing, what influences teacher wellbeing and what evidence-based interventions might be used to improve teacher wellbeing, is a companion report to Wellbeing in Education in Childhood and Adolescence, another study by Wellbeing Research Centre on student wellbeing. Laura Taylor, Deputy Director of Wellbeing Research Centre at University of Oxford and Lead Researcher for the project, notes, “As we navigate the crucial intersection of education and wellbeing, the research evidence highlights the profound importance of prioritising teacher wellbeing. By investing in the health and happiness of educators, we not only empower them to thrive but also lay the foundation for a positive ripple effect on students, schools, and the broader education system.”