“Teachers: leading in crisis reimagining the future” on World Teachers’ Day
On World Teachers’ Day, we celebrate and recognise the achievements of the teaching profession. Teachers who are taking the lead in crisis to ensure all students can continue their education.
The Australian Education Union (AEU) is inviting teachers and school communities to share their stories about teachers and principals taking the lead in 2020 on social media using the hashtags #TeachersLead2020 and #WorldTeachersDay.
Correna Haythorpe, AEU Federal President said; “Teachers in preschool, TAFE and schools have led the way in 2020, working tirelessly and creatively to make sure that every student can continue their high quality education, regardless of the circumstances.
“From teachers who joined the local fire-fighting response during the worst bushfire season on record, to teachers who taught remotely and who kept schools open during the global pandemic, teachers have been, and still are, on the frontline this year.”
The AEU 2020 State of our Schools survey revealed the extent of the extra commitment that teachers have put in this year. A majority of teachers (69%) have worked additional hours this year, with the average additional hours amounting to 12 hours per week across all public schools.
The Federal Government must recognise this incredible commitment and back the teaching profession by ensuring that all schools are funded to 100% of the minimum Schooling Resource Standard (SRS) so that all students can reach their full potential.
Ms Haythorpe said; “It is teachers who continue to demonstrate their resilience, commitment and hope for the future. Today we celebrate the outstanding educational leadership of the teaching profession, not only in 2020 but always.”
MEDIA CONTACT: NICK BUCHAN, 0418 288 104
Notes
World Teachers’ Day is celebrated internationally on 5 October. As this date falls during the school holidays, it is celebrated on 30 October in Australia.
The AEU 2020 State of our Schools survey attracted 12,307 respondents from public schools across Australia; 9,733 teachers, 1,787 support staff and 787 principals.
