Finding a teaching job has never been tougher. A recent article by University Affairs is reporting the reality of the teaching job market in Canada. It is discouraging for new teachers and the school boards who interview great candidates, but are frustrated that they cannot guarantee new teachers more than part time work.
In Canada, the growing number of unemployed teachers is highest in Ontario. Coastal provinces are experiencing similar circumstances, but Ontario’s numbers speak for themselves as nearly 68% of new teachers are not getting full-time work or even related employment.
A survey done by the Ontario College of Teachers provided grim evidence that things do not seem to be looking up for the next several years. If an applicant is able to get on a supply list, they will likely stay in this position for several years. One teacher described her on again off again work as ‘putting her life on hold’. Many frustrated, keen and talented teachers share this view.
The trend for teacher shortages and oversupply has been up and down over the decades. A retirement boom from 1998 – 2008 did not guarantee more jobs because of the number of retired teachers coming back to fill supply positions. There is still a mismatch though between the annual average number of retiring teachers of about 4, 500 compared to the 12,000 new certified teachers entering the job market. This reality has caused many Canadian graduates to look for jobs teaching overseas.
Despite the realistic picture of what a future holds for teachers, many are still pursuing their passion – no matter what. Visit the article and post your comment. http://www.universityaffairs.
