A teaching union has said there are encouraging signs than more newly qualified teachers are willing to stay to seek employment in Northern Ireland.
The National Education Union said it was now feeling “cautiously optimistic” that the trend in young teachers moving elsewhere for better-paid jobs may be starting to slow.
Teachers in NI can now earn a starting salary of around £30,000 a year, following the end of a long-running dispute over pay and conditions, while work is continuing with the Department of Education over workloads.
Statistics from The General Teaching Council (GTCNI) revealed that 80% of this year’s teacher graduates have successfully registered, indicating a strong intention to remain in NI.
It comes as a welcome development amidst the ongoing challenge of retaining newly qualified, highly skilled educators within the region.
Pauline Buchanan, National Education Union (NEU) regional secretary, said she hopes the latest figures suggest that the trend in teachers leaving is starting to reverse.
“Northern Ireland has a proud tradition of producing exceptional teachers,” she said.
“However, in recent years, we have seen many of our talented graduates seek better employment opportunities, career progression and competitive pay packages in other regions such as Scotland, the Republic of Ireland and even further afield in the Middle East. This trend has been a significant concern for our sector for a number of years.
“The recent pay deal for teachers in Northern Ireland may be beginning to show positive effects. While it is too early to draw definitive conclusions, the increased registration figures offer a glimmer of hope that we are making strides in creating a more attractive environment for our new graduates.
“As the leading voice for educators in Northern Ireland, the NEU remains committed to advocating for the best interests of our teachers,” Pauline added.
“We know that the job landscape may remain tough for new educators and so we are offering £1 newly qualified membership for all newly graduated students.
“We encourage new graduates to join us, where they will find support and career guidance, professional development opportunities and a community dedicated to enhancing the teaching profession.
“Together we can ensure that Northern Ireland not only retains but also nurtures its exceptional teaching talent.”
Pauline Buchanan, regional secretary for the National Education Union
Historically, Northern Ireland has produced more teachers than available teaching positions, leading to a surplus of qualified educators and making securing full-time, permanent roles locally a challenge.
Limited career advancement opportunities have driven graduates to regions with more structure pathways and a better work-life balance.
While Northern Ireland offers a relatively lower cost of living, the allure of better living standards, lifestyle options and amenities in other countries has been attractive to young teachers.