OECD report highlights teacher stress, ageing staff and discipline issues in Portugal

The OECD’s Education at a Glance 2026 report points to a combination of classroom indiscipline, burdensome administrative duties and an ageing teaching staff as key stressors for Portuguese educators. Portugal is listed among the top countries where teachers often have to calm disruptive pupils, with 91% reporting frequent disturbances. Around 38% of secondary teachers are 55 or older, placing the nation near the top of the OECD ranking for older educators.

While higher salaries and manageable workloads can help attract new teachers, the study argues that autonomy, supportive leadership and public recognition are equally important. It also calls for expanded digital and artificial-intelligence tools, better workforce planning and redesigned school structures to reduce administrative pressure. Finally, the report notes low satisfaction with working conditions and pay among Portuguese teachers compared with other OECD members.