As teachers head back to the classroom after their summer break this week, figures revealed that 56 positions remained outstanding this summer across the Island.
New figures will be released by the end of the week showing how many of these posts have since been filled.
The news comes after a turbulent few months for the education sector that has seen teachers go on a number of strikes, before finally reaching a new pay deal with the government.
Deputy Rob Ward, a former teacher, said the number of vacancies was a big concern and a lot of work needed to be done around retaining and attracting teachers. He added that there was a cocktail of factors affecting the problem, such as pay, teaching conditions and the treatment of teachers.
He said: ‘We have been told we will have new figures on Friday, so we will know the full picture then but the number at the moment is concerning.
‘It will go down if people have been interviewed and jobs have been filled recently.
‘But the reasons why there has been so many vacancies needs to be addressed.
‘The fact that teachers had to go out on strike to get the pay rise they did is one reason why there are so many vacancies.
‘Other things are working conditions and teachers’ wellbeing. There is a cocktail of factors that need to be investigated, to make sure Jersey can attract and retain teachers.’
Earlier this week the St Helier Deputy took to social media to address the Island’s teachers as they went back to school.
He urged them to consider joining a union to have a stronger voice and he pledged to continue working to improve funding in the education sector.
He added: ‘I know the pressures you face. From nonsense in the media and a political structure that fails to value you as workers because of a lack of value in our public services.
‘I ask parents to support teachers. And that teachers take time to support each other and to remember that your wellbeing is vital.
‘And join a union. Together, you are so much stronger.
‘I will be working to improve funding, respect for the profession and to ensure all children have the best education we can offer in our advanced and wealthy society.
‘So, have a good term.’
