Staff in Australia’s Schools 2013 Survey

Teacher employment

• 73% of primary teachers and 81% of secondary teachers are employed full-time
• Less than half of teachers aged 25 or younger are in ongoing or permanent positions

Average teacher workload (self-reported)

• Face-to-face teaching: Primary 24 hours/week; Secondary 20 hours/week
• All school-related activities: Primary 48 hours/week; Secondary 48 hours/week

Average class size

• Primary generalist classes: 25
• Secondary years 7/8 – 10: range from 15 (ESL) to 25 (General science, Religious studies). Mostly 21-24
• Secondary years 11 – 12: range from 10 (LOTE, Music) to 21 (Religious studies). Mostly 15-18

Five or more days engaged in professional learning activities (in the last 12 months)

• Primary teachers: 79%
• Secondary teachers: 68%

Areas of perceived need for more professional learning

• Primary teachers (early career): Supporting students with disabilities; teaching students with a wide range of backgrounds and abilities; dealing with difficult student behaviour.
• Primary teachers (experience): Making effective use of ICT.
• Secondary teachers (early career): Dealing with difficult student behaviour.
• Secondary teachers (experienced): Making effective use of ICT.