Teacher shortage eases in Styria as 85% of lessons staffed

The teacher shortage in Styria is easing, with 85 percent of the teaching hours advertised for the new school year already filled, ORF reported. However, the situation varies by region, with some positions attracting dozens of applicants while others have few candidates.

About 15 percent of the hours, or roughly 1,500, will be advertised again on August 26. A third round of recruitment will take place in autumn.

Teachers who have not yet received an offer can apply again for a different position or school. Principals make the selections and use the “Get your teacher” portal to indicate which candidates they are seeking.

The greatest demand is for teachers of German, mathematics, English, physical education and sport for girls, special education and religion. Most vacancies are in Graz, the surrounding area and Voitsberg, as well as in eastern Upper Styria and eastern Styria.

A total of 2,270 people applied for the coming school year, including about 280 career changers. Eighteen career changers will enter the profession permanently, with their introductory sessions beginning at the University College of Teacher Education Styria at the end of August. Ninety-one student teachers will begin their first employment relationship in the new school year.

Elisabeth Meixner, Styria’s director of education, said the staffing situation had improved noticeably after a wave of retirements. She added that regional differences remained and that some schools were still looking for teachers.