My doctoral research explored the wellbeing of New Zealand primary and secondary school teachers. Using a mixed-methods approach, I conducted a comprehensive survey followed by interviews to gain deeper insights.

As a teacher and school counsellor working full-time while completing this research, I brought a practitioner’s perspective. Most previous studies had been quantitative, so the qualitative interviews offered a fresh lens. Participants shared their experiences generously, revealing a rich picture of teacher wellbeing.

The research found that teachers’ wellbeing is lower than that of the general New Zealand population, with workload a key contributor. School leadership and colleagues each affected wellbeing, sometimes positively, sometimes negatively.

My thesis has been awarded Exceptional Thesis status by the University of Otago, honouring and validating the experiences teachers’ shared. I am excited to share what learnt with educators and people in positions of influence over the environments in which teachers work.

Read my thesis on the University of Otago OUR archive here.