Can a good timetable reduce teacher burnout?
Teacher burnout is a serious issue in education. While many factors contribute to it, a poorly designed timetable can make things worse. Here are a few key points to help you create timetables that support teacher well-being.
Consider teachers’ preferences
No two teachers are alike. Some prefer to do their planning, preparation, and assessment (PPA) time in the morning, while others prefer the afternoon. Some have family commitments that a timetabler may be able to work around.
- Granting these preferences can go a long way toward improving job satisfaction. For example, aligning schedules to accommodate these needs shows teachers that their time and well-being are valued.
- Assigning preferred classes also matters. Don’t assign the statistics expert to the gym class (unless they want it).
Provide suitable preparation time
Teachers need adequate preparation time to manage their workload effectively:
- Grouped PPA time: Wherever possible, group preparation time together rather than scattering it throughout the day.
- Letting teachers choose their prep time: Allowing teachers to select their preparation periods where possible gives them greater control over their schedules.
Avoid overburdening teachers
Burnout often stems from teachers being overworked. Timetabling can help by:
- Limiting cover teaching: Avoid overusing teachers as cover for absent colleagues. Building flexibility into the timetable can distribute cover duties more evenly.
- Rotating challenging groups: Don’t always assign the same teachers to the most challenging groups. Share the responsibility to prevent burnout.
- Ensuring adequate PPA time: Sufficient time for planning, preparation, and assessment is essential for long-term sustainability.
Minimize rushing and large workloads
Timetablers can also reduce stress through better logistical planning:
- Minimizing travel between lessons: Teachers shouldn’t have to rush between classrooms, especially if they are far apart. While small institutions may not face this issue, large campuses—like universities—must address it.
- Reasonable staffing levels and class sizes: While timetablers can’t always control budgets, they can raise issues of under-staffing or large class sizes early in the timetabling process and work to ensure burdens are shared equally.
Gather early feedback
Getting teachers’ input early can improve outcomes:
- Seek feedback on timetables: Early feedback allows adjustments to be made where possible. However, manage expectations carefully to avoid over-promising.
- Incorporate flexibility: Build in some flexibility to avoid over-reliance on specific individuals, especially for cover duties.
Beyond the timetable
While a good timetable helps, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. Teacher well-being also depends on:
- A supportive team spirit: Fostering a positive school culture and supportive leadership.
- Opportunities for professional development: Helping teachers grow in their careers boosts morale and engagement.
- Support during challenging times: Teachers need to feel that their leadership team has their back.
- Creative freedom: Giving teachers some autonomy over their curriculum design can enhance job satisfaction.
When teachers feel supported, they’re empowered to thrive—and that benefits everyone in the school community.