High Accommodation Costs May Deter Teachers in Guernsey

The president of the Education, Sport and Culture committee has stated that the elevated cost of accommodation might be rendering Guernsey “less attractive” as a place for teachers. During a scrutiny meeting, Deputy Andrea Dudley-Owen observed that the island’s housing market was experiencing a period of “squeeze”. Individuals recruited by the States from outside Guernsey are provided with a relocation package, which incorporates a rental allowance. Paul Montague, a representative for the National Education Union, indicated that teachers are “not willing to stay in Guernsey” after their allowance concludes. Mr. Montague also noted that teachers expressed dissatisfaction regarding the variety of available accommodation. He stated, “We get lots and lots of complaints about the quality of accommodation, and what they’re getting for what they pay.” He added, “For a lot of colleagues from the UK, they find it really doesn’t make sense.” The topic of accommodation was raised during discussions concerning recruitment and retention within the education sector. Dudley-Owen’s response was: “Invariably it is a challenge because of the cost of living and cost of accommodation on-island.” She further commented, “It has to been seen as a factor that might make us less attractive.” Nick Hynes, the director of education, reported that recruitment and retention efforts were “stronger” compared to prior years. Mr. Montague remarked: “There has been a slight reduction in the use of agency staff, but we are still suffering from a massive turnover of staff.” He continued, “When I think about that on student outcomes, it is massively damaging.”