Questions Without Notice from Party Spokespeople

Part of 2. Questions to the Minister for Education and Welsh Language – in the Senedd at 2:38 pm on 18 May 2022.

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Photo of Heledd Fychan Heledd Fychan Plaid Cymru 2:38, 18 May 2022

(Translated)

Thank you, Llywydd. Minister, on 11 May, Jayne Bryant and I met with members of NEU Wales for a session that focused on raising awareness of the impact of workload on the mental health and well-being of staff in schools. A recent survey of its members found that 95 per cent of educators are working longer hours than those specified in their contracts, and that 44 per cent of educators are seriously considering leaving the education sector. The survey also found that 79 per cent of respondents feel uncertain whether they have a good work-life balance, and 62 per cent of respondents said that their employers aren’t doing anything to lessen their workloads.

Although some support has been given by the Government to support the health and well-being of staff, the clear message that I received from them was that this wasn’t being felt on the ground, and that the most important thing that the Welsh Government could do would be to help to lessen workloads. Do you have any plans to provide further support for the mental health of teachers and school staff through lessening their workloads, and ensuring that we don't lose more teachers?