The Department of Education in 2026 asked more than 900 teachers, head teachers and Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCOS) across England how long they planned to stay in teaching, and almost half of those in post said they were considering leaving in the next five years, while one in ten were planning to spend less than a year in the role. Primary school teacher Zoe*, 38, who has not used her real name in order to protect the school and her own future job prospects, has experienced first-hand why there is a teacher shortage in English state education. She lives in Somerset and handed in her notice in April 2026 after 13 years of teaching. After much agonising, she has no plans to return to the classroom in the new school year and will be changing careers. Here, she explains to Kasia Delgado why she‘s quitting.
There have been many times over my teaching career where I’ve felt that there is no better job in the world. It’s never been an easy job – it’s not “just colouring”, which is what some people seem to think primary teaching is – but it can be so rewarding. I love being with the children, helping them “get” things for the first time and just being that formative part of their early years. There are some really funny moments and some kids who are so lovely and make great progress. We need good, committed teachers, and I felt I was one and was really proud of it.
