Why More Teachers Are Leaving Permanent Roles — And Why Many Are Finding Their Joy Again Through Supply Work

Teaching has always been demanding — but in 2026, it’s become something else entirely. Teachers across Essex are telling us the same thing: the workload is heavier, the expectations are higher, and the emotional toll is real.

But here’s the twist: While many teachers are stepping away from permanent roles, they’re not stepping away from teaching. They’re stepping away from burnout.

Why teachers are leaving permanent posts

The reasons are painfully consistent:

• Excessive marking and planning

• Behaviour challenges without enough support

• Pressure from inspections and data

• Lack of work‑life balance

• Emotional exhaustion

• Feeling undervalued

Teachers aren’t leaving because they don’t love teaching. They’re leaving because they want to love it again.

Why supply teaching is becoming the “reset button”

More teachers are choosing supply because it gives them:

• Freedom — choose when and where they work

• Flexibility — no endless marking or planning

• Variety — different schools, different experiences

• Balance — time for family, hobbies, and rest

• Joy — reconnecting with the part of teaching they actually enjoy

We hear it constantly at Pebl:

“I didn’t realise how much I missed just teaching.”

How Pebl supports teachers making the switch

Pebl’s approach is simple: We make supply feel safe, supportive, and human.

We offer:

• Clear communication

• Fair, transparent pay

• Schools that match your style

• Options for day‑to‑day, short‑term, or long‑term

• A team that actually listens

We don’t treat teachers like numbers. We treat them like people.

The impact on schools

Schools benefit too. Teachers who choose supply are often:

• Happier

• More energised

• More flexible

• More present

• More focused on pupils

A teacher who feels valued teaches better — it’s that simple.

The future of teaching

Permanent roles will always matter. But flexible teaching is no longer a “backup plan”. It’s becoming a sustainable, respected career choice.

And Pebl is proud to support teachers who want to stay in the profession — without losing themselves in the process.