It’s a tough time for schools right now (and we know that’s not news to you!).

Over the past few months, education leaders across the UK have been grappling with shrinking budgets, rising expectations, and difficult staffing decisions. The most recent Financial Times analysis (April 2025) revealed that public sector employers, including schools, are more likely to cut staff than hire this year. Additionally, unions like the NEU and NAHT have reported ongoing reductions in teaching and support staff.

In London, the challenge is even greater. A drop in pupil numbers combined with increased operating costs. means many schools are now working with fewer resources and more pressure than ever before.

And yet, students still need the same support. Lessons still need to happen. The show must go on (just with fewer hands on deck).

So, what does this mean for staffing?

Many schools are hitting pause on permanent recruitment and trying to stretch what they already have. Senior leaders are stepping into the classroom. TAs are being asked to do more. Vacancies are being left unfilled because there simply isn’t room in the budget.

This isn't ideal, and it’s definitely not sustainable. So how can we help?

Helping you do more with less

At Education World, we work closely with headteachers, school business managers, and trust leaders every day and right now, everyone’s asking the same thing: “How can we keep things going without blowing the budget?”

We don’t have a magic wand, but we do have practical solutions. Many schools are now using part-time or short-term staff to manage their needs more cost-effectively. This could mean bringing in a supply teacher a few days a week to support a stretched department, or hiring a skilled teaching assistant to ease pressure on class teachers. These aren’t compromises, they’re smart, sustainable staffing decisions.

We also support schools with long-term planning. That might involve helping a multi-academy trust restructure how it uses support staff, or advising on when and where temporary cover can save both money and stress. Our job isn’t just to plug gaps, it’s to help schools stay operational, compliant, and focused on learning.

All of our candidates are:

• Fully vetted (in line with regulatory requirements, KCSIE guidelines and the REC Code of Professional Conduct)

• Ready to hit the ground running

• Experienced in adapting quickly to new environments

We know you're juggling a lot. Recruitment might feel like just another thing on the list, especially when you're trying to keep an eye on costs. That’s why we’re here to work with you as your recruitment partner.

Let’s talk about what’s next

We’re not pretending things are easy right now. But we are here to help schools move through this challenging period with a bit more support and a bit less stress.

If you’re rethinking your staffing approach or just want to chat about your options, we’re always happy to have a conversation, no pressure.

📞 Get in Touch
Let’s chat about how we can help your school stay staffed and supported
Contact us at any time.