82% of teachers believe main political parties in UK need to prioritise education

A recent survey by Superprof, has highlighted significant concerns among educators regarding the prioritisation of education by major political parties as the UK heads towards a general election. 

The survey gathered insights from 464 Superprof tutors across the UK  who are or have been, teachers in schools. It reveals that 82% of those surveyed believe that the main political parties need to give more attention to education.

The survey findings indicate a pervasive lack of optimism about the future of the education sector. Only 25% of respondents believe that the education sector might improve over the next parliament, while 24% strongly believe it will not improve at all.

 Labour, although receiving the highest positive response, still leaves 59% of educators sceptical about its potential positive impact on education. The Greens were seen as slightly more favourable, with 33% of respondents believing they could benefit the sector, yet 67% remained unconvinced. 

The Liberal Democrats were viewed positively by 25% of those polled, but 78% remained doubtful. Reform UK Limited received a low confidence rating, with 82% of respondents expressing neutrality or disagreement about their potential positive impact, and only 18% in support.

 The Conservative Party received the lowest confidence vote, with 86% of educators being neutral or disagreeing about their positive impact and only 15% showing support.

Qualitative responses from the survey provided deeper insights into educators' concerns. One tutor mentioned the need for a significant funding increase to schools, focusing on training new teachers and caring for and retaining existing teachers. 

Another highlighted the impact of technology on children's learning, stressing the importance of guidance from guardian figures to set boundaries and motivate students. The tutor also expressed concern over excessive screen time contributing to the mental health crisis among young people.

The survey also explored what the incoming government could do to best support the education sector. Most respondents agreed or strongly agreed that boosting vocational education and skills (70%) and addressing children's mental health issues (69%) should be major priorities. 

68% of respondents emphasised the importance of targeted funding for disadvantaged children in their early years and between the ages of 16 to 19. Tackling teacher shortages was also highlighted as a critical area, with 68% agreement, followed by reducing class sizes (55%). Other priorities included reforming formal assessments (54%), reforming Ofsted (50%), and improving school accountability (42%).

Superprof's General Manager, Camille Lemardeley, commented on the findings, stating:

 "The UK general election is set to create a major change — of both government and national priorities. But our tutors have shown that they still don’t feel represented ahead of going to the polls, and don’t feel too optimistic about the future. 

Many of the concerns listed in the survey are also the reason that we exist — to help tutors and students connect on a deeper, one-to-one level. We know that one-on-one learning has better outcomes, so we are proud to offer a platform that helps to open that up to many more people across the UK."