Teacher Retention in Australian Music Education

Abstract

This study aims to investigate whether classroom music education in Australia is experiencing challenges regarding teacher attrition, and the main factors which influence graduates to either continue classroom music teaching or to leave the profession. In this mixed methods study, 59 Australian music education graduates who have passed through their early career stage responded to a questionnaire. The questionnaire enabled close investigation and subsequent rich analysis of a significant amount of data in relation to the participants’ career trajectory and professional experiences. Interviews of eight graduates, five University lecturers, and teacher mentors equalled almost nine hours of recordings. Following recommendations in the literature, graduates past the early career stage were chosen because their time in the workforce had allowed them the opportunity to reflect on experiences as beginning teachers, and their impact on subsequent career choices. The study documents the stories of a passionate, intelligent, articulate collection of education professionals who work hard to engage and inspire Australian students. This study presents a somewhat grim and complex picture, finding that amongst those who participated there is substantial attrition which may be reflective of significant pressures and inadequate support throughout Australian education systems.