ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the extent of the problems associated with teachers leaving teaching in England. It explains why this is a problem and whom it affects the most. The author discusses the findings of several studies which explore which teachers are at the highest risk of leaving the profession and why.
It is found that teachers are tempted to, and do, leave teaching at many stages of their career. The chapter goes beyond the prevalent ‘mood music’ of the way in which teachers’ concerns are presented in social media to describe real trends. The author explains how important it is for teachers to have a sense of agency in their work and how adopting more flexible working practices might make teaching a more sustainable profession. The chapter draws on the authors’ original research to explore what is driving teachers away from the profession and what might make them stay.
