Podcast 102: Teacher Anxiety, Stress and Mental Health

Our 104th interview is with Sinéad Mc Brearty, CEO of Education Support - the only UK charity that supports the wellbeing and mental health of education staff. Education Support published the 2020 Teacher Wellbeing Index in November. Amongst their findings, they found a sharp increase in symptoms of poor mental health and stress levels, as well as working hours undertaken by education staff. As a result, 52% of education professionals have considered leaving the sector in the last 2 years due to pressures on their mental health and wellbeing. In this podcast, listen to Sinéad and Teacher Toolkit founder, Ross McGill discuss what a typical workday consists of as CEO, plus Sinéad’s ambitions at 16 years old and her career progression. We ask about her desire to see an accountability culture change in education and unpick teacher anxiety, stress, and mental health challenges rising across education (Teacher Wellbeing Index). As we move deeper into the discussion, we hear more about the importance of feeling appreciated and why more than half of education staff are thinking about leaving the profession and the clear message no pay rise sends to teachers! You can connect with Sinead on Twitter and find out how Education Support can support you or a colleague.