Nine ‘Til Three? Not Likely! A Study of Teachers’ Workload

Abstract

The popular perception is that teachers only work school hours, 9 'til 3 o'clock. This paper challenges that notion and argues that school teachers work long hours and have a heavy workload. Large workloads have a negative effect on teachers' health, well-being and work-life balance. The findings of the study indicate that regardless of gender, role, sector and employment fraction, the majority of all teachers work long hours. Further, many teachers are dissatisfied with their workload and balance between work and personal life. In light of the findings, it is argued that policies need to be developed to restrict teachers' workloads. Without such policies, the flow of teachers out of the profession will continue.