Being a teacher is fulfilling. It’s an ever-changing career that inspires. But it’s also exhausting, mentally and physically.

Often those outside of the profession see only 13 weeks of holiday, a 9am – 3:30pm day plus a few INSET days thrown into the mix, leaving some to ponder why we struggle at times.

Many do not see the burdens placed on schools, senior leaders and teachers. Not only do we seem to be trying to teach the next generations the knowledge and skills needed for a successful life, we’re also being asked to play a huge societal role without adequate funding.

It’s not a surprise therefore, that many leaders and classroom teachers, both new and experienced face burnout at some point in their career.

But what burnout and how can it be avoided?

What is occupational burnout?