Beyond the Big Quit
Abstract
Across Europe, the sustainability of the teaching profession has become a pressing concern, with Greece offering a particularly rich case study of recent reforms. This chapter explores the multifaceted challenge of teacher retention in the Greek context, analyzing institutional reforms, pedagogical innovations, and support mechanisms that contribute to professional sustainability. It examines how professional development, shared leadership practices, inclusive education structures, and flexible teaching models impact educators' motivation, resilience, and long-term engagement. While the initiatives presented are rooted in Greece, they provide practical insights that can inform international efforts to make teaching more resilient and attractive. The discussion argues that teacher retention is not merely a staffing issue but a strategic imperative rooted in systemic trust, pedagogical autonomy, and emotional sustainability. By investing in comprehensive support structures and empowering educators as co-creators of school culture, Greece demonstrates how education systems can cultivate a resilient teaching workforce capable of meeting the evolving demands of modern classrooms.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Teacher Professional Development and Motivation
Teacher Education and Leadership Studies
School Leadership and Teacher Performance
Publication details
- Journal / source
- IGI Global eBooks
- Pages
- 91–118
- Publication date
- 28 January 2026
- Language
- NG
- Document type
- Book chapter