Special Schools Struggle to Staff

Special schools across Queensland are struggling with severe teacher shortages, operating at just 84% staffing levels in some regions, while regular schools remain fully staffed. The crisis is worsened by universities phasing out special education degrees, leaving a pipeline gap and forcing untrained relief teachers into roles that demand deep expertise—placing undue pressure on teacher aides. For students with autism and complex needs, even a substitute teacher can disrupt vital routines. Amid rising demand since 2019, the government plans to open seven new special schools, despite a royal commission’s call to phase them out. To address the shortfall, officials are rolling out incentives, relocation packages, and a new university-backed training program to better prepare educators for the unique challenges of special education classrooms. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/86a4bc16bb73c386