The Australian Capital Territory's education union is calling for guaranteed staffing levels in public schools to improve class quality and reduce teacher workloads. The plea comes as new data reveals a rise in student numbers and teacher vacancies across the territory.
Union Demands Staffing Guarantees
The Australian Education Union ACT branch has urged the ACT government to introduce mandated staffing ratios. The union argues that without guarantees, schools cannot maintain quality education. President Angela Burroughs said teachers are overwhelmed by growing class sizes and administrative demands.
Current Staffing Challenges
Data from the ACT Education Directorate shows that student enrollment has increased by 5% over the past two years. Meanwhile, teacher vacancies have risen by 15%, particularly in specialised subjects like maths and science. Burroughs noted that some schools have classes with more than 30 students, which hinders individual attention.
“Teachers are burning out. We need a commitment from the government to ensure every school has enough staff to support students,” Burroughs said. The union proposes a ratio of one teacher per 20 students in primary schools and one per 22 in secondary schools.
Government Response
ACT Education Minister Yvette Berry acknowledged the concerns but stopped short of promising mandatory ratios. She said the government is investing in new teacher recruitment and retention strategies. “We have allocated $10 million for teacher training and incentives to attract educators to the ACT,” Berry said.
However, the union argues that incentives are not enough. “We need structural changes, not just short-term fixes,” Burroughs said. The union plans to launch a campaign to pressure the government ahead of the next budget.
Impact on Students
Parents and students have also voiced concerns. A survey by the ACT Council of Parents and Citizens Associations found that 70% of parents believe class sizes affect their child's learning. “My daughter’s year 9 science class has 32 students. She rarely gets one-on-one help,” said parent Sarah Collins.
The union warns that without action, teacher shortages will worsen. “We are at a tipping point. If we don’t act now, the quality of education in ACT schools will decline,” Burroughs said.
The ACT government has promised to review staffing levels in the next school term. Meanwhile, the union will hold a meeting with members to discuss next steps.
