On the positive side, data shows that more young Europeans obtaining third-level education and the two-decade success in bringing down early school leaving rates has continued.

However, teacher shortages remain a major challenge in Europe and are the focus of the 2023 edition along with efforts to make the teaching profession more attractive.

The Education and Training Monitor 2023 includes a comparative analysis, individual country reports and an online toolbox.

Tackling the shortage of new teachers

Teacher shortages are increasing and are even expected to worsen in some countries due to an ageing teaching population. Policy tends to address shortages in specific subjects rather than dealing with geographic imbalances. Some countries are looking into innovative solutions, such as pooling teachers across schools or organising timetables differently.

More detailed information can be found in the newly established Teachers’ dashboard.

Recruitment and retention: attractiveness of the teaching profession

For the future of European education, it is crucial to make teaching careers more attractive to both potential and current teachers. There have been major salary increases in some countries, but increases in real terms have been lower due to inflation and remain below the salaries of other tertiary graduates. Other initiatives are needed.

EU countries use policy measures, which can include:

• getting more students into initial teacher training (encouraging entrants from other professions, fast-track initiatives, scholarships)
• developing opportunities for teachers to extend their qualifications (funding and mentoring)
• financial incentives for teachers working with disadvantaged students

Around two thirds of EU education systems have introduced alternative pathways into the teaching profession via professional-oriented education programmes, employment-based training and examinations.