Skip to main content
European Commission logo
European School Education Platform
News item

European support for teachers and trainers for the future

Supporting teachers has been given high-level attention in recent weeks with the adoption of the EU Council Conclusions and a major conference for over a thousand participants from all over Europe, hosted by the Croatian Presidency.

Council conclusions on European teachers and trainers for the future

Council conclusions are statements adopted after a debate during a Council meeting. They can contain ideas or a political position on a specific topic.

These conclusions recognise that teachers and trainers are an indispensable driving force of education and training, and acknowledge their commitment during the current COVID-19 crisis.

They invite Member States to undertake a number of measures over the coming years, related to developing the competences and careers of teachers and trainers: promoting their participation in continuous professional development, promoting their mobility, involving them in future policy design and fostering their well-being.

They also invite the European Commission to continue supporting the development of education and training opportunities for student and practising teachers and trainers, as well as their mobility.

Towards the “new normal”

With constant social, cultural, economic, scientific and technological developments – and in particular taking into account the circumstances caused by the COVID-19 pandemic – the demands, responsibilities and expectations put upon teachers and trainers are increasing.

Continuous change and challenges have an effect not only on the competences required, but also on teachers’ and trainers’ well-being and the attractiveness of the teaching profession.

These were the issues discussed in a major European video conference held on 29 June and hosted by the Croatian Presidency of the Council of the EU. You can view all of the presentation and panel discussion videos online.

Find out more:

Webinar and video on school education careers

Article on supporting teacher and school leader careers