We know that there is a recruitment crisis, but what do the numbers actually look like? We break down the figures to give you the full story.

Teacher numbers

453,813

the number of full-time equivalent (FTE) teachers working in state-funded schools in England.

400

the increase of FTE teachers compared to 2018.

8 

the number of years teacher recruitment targets have been missed.

3,300

the number of trainee secondary phase teachers the government failed to recruit to hit their target.

940

the total number of teaching post vacancies in the state sector - rising from 380 in 2010.

£40,537

the average salary of a FTE teacher.

39,675

the number of teachers who left the profession in 2019.

9.2%

the current percentage of qualified teachers who leave teaching each year.

350,000

the number of qualified teachers who are not currently teaching in the state sector. 

85%

the percentage of trainee teachers who go on to work in a state-funded school.

Student numbers

4.64 million

the number of primary and nursery students.

2.85 million

the number of secondary school students.

3.28 million

the estimated number of students that will be in secondary school by 2025. 

Pupil:teacher ratios

16.6:1

the ratio of pupils to teachers in state secondary schools.

20.9:1

the ratio of pupils to teachers in state primary schools.

All data refers to schools in England and is taken from the Department for Education’ s School Workforce in England, the Teacher recruitment and retention in England briefing paper, and National Pupil Projections. 

If you’re struggling to find the right staff, Tes has a range of recruitment options that can help. Visit our Recruitment Products page for details.