Forum: More done to manage teacher workload and support their well-being

We thank Forum writers Chan Wai Han (

Relief teaching stint long ago convinced me not to enter the profession,

Sept 26) and Raymond Han (

Relief teaching never felt like a chore to me,

Sept 27) for sharing their experiences and different perspectives. We are heartened that what fundamentally underlies their views is the important role teachers play.

We value our teachers, and the unique nature of their work stewarding young lives. The Ministry of Education (MOE) recognises the demands placed on our teachers, and regularly reviews our teachers’ workload.

Over the years, we have strengthened measures to manage teachers’ workload and support their well-being. For example, at the recent Schools Work Plan Seminar, MOE announced several initiatives, including a pilot feature in Parents Gateway to let parents electronically submit their child’s documents for absence; letting schools opt to offer either the Applied Learning Programme or the Learning for Life Programme instead of both; and setting clear expectations on teachers’ availability and work hours. MOE and schools will continue to do so.

MOE, like the rest of the civil service, adopts a system of relative ranking from which officers can be identified for recognition and development appropriately. This has helped us to maintain a high-quality teaching workforce over time. Teachers can be assured of the support provided to enable their professional and career growth.

There are also structures and programmes in place to support teacher well-being, including curated resources, workshops and access to professional counsellors. Many of our teachers value the strong sense of community within the fraternity. We encourage them to share their concerns with their supervisors, mentors or peers such as the wellness ambassadors in their schools should they need support.

We thank our teachers for their sense of mission and commitment. It is inspiring to see many of them having an abiding belief in the meaningfulness of our profession, and finding fulfilment in their career and through the opportunities for their development.

We also appreciate the partnership of parents and the support of the community. Their respect and care for our teachers help to create an environment that is conducive for teachers to thrive and do their best in nurturing a happy, confident and kind generation.

Beatrice Chong
Deputy Director-General of Education (Professional Development)
Ministry of Education