As we approach the end of the year, many schools are starting to look ahead at how the next academic cycle will shape their staffing needs. At the same time, support staff and educators are planning their next steps, whether that’s progressing in their current roles or exploring new opportunities.

Looking at the latest insights and forecasts, several education workforce trends for 2026 in the UK are already emerging. From evolving skills requirements to continued teacher shortages in 2026, schools and candidates alike can benefit from understanding what’s coming next.

This blog explores the key themes shaping the sector and what they mean for the year ahead.

Key Workforce Trends for 2026

1. Continued Demand for High-Quality Support Staff

Support roles, including Teaching Assistants, SEND specialists, Behaviour Mentors and Pastoral Support Officers, are forecast to see strong demand next year. This aligns with the rise in complex learner needs and increased interventions required at classroom level.

2. Increased Pressure on Recruitment Due to Teacher Shortages

Across the UK, teacher shortages in 2026 are expected to continue, driving a greater need for adaptable, skilled support staff who can provide stability, continuity and effective classroom assistance.

3. Growing Focus on SEND Expertise

With more pupils requiring additional learning support, schools are prioritising staff with SEND training and experience. This trend is expected to accelerate in 2026 and will impact both recruitment and CPD priorities.

4. Demand for Multi-Skilled Staff

Schools increasingly seek professionals who can combine academic support with pastoral care, behaviour management, safeguarding and digital literacy, making flexible skill sets highly valued.

5. Emphasis on Retention and Workforce Wellbeing

Retention continues to be a priority, with schools focusing on stability and long-term staffing solutions. Recruitment partners who support continuity, such as our team here at Chalk Education, with a strong education insight, will play a key part in helping schools maintain a consistent workforce.

What Schools Should Prepare for in 2026

The changing workforce landscape means schools will benefit from planning ahead now. Key steps include:

• Strengthening talent pipelines early by recruiting high-quality support staff before peak demand periods.
  
  
• Investing in SEND capabilities to meet the rising level of need within classrooms and across support departments.
  
  
• Reviewing workforce strategies to reduce reliance on reactive, last-minute staffing.
  
  
• Supporting retention through wellbeing-led practices and clear pathways for development.
  
  
• Partnering with a trusted, specialist agency that understands both the challenges and the opportunities the new year will bring.
  
  

Proactive preparation now ensures that pupils receive consistent, high-quality support, regardless of how workforce pressures evolve throughout 2026.

What Candidates Can Expect in 2026

If you’re considering new opportunities in the new year, here are the key takeaways:

Strong demand for support staff roles

Positions such as Teaching Assistants, SEND roles, Behaviour Mentors and Pastoral Support Officers will continue to grow in demand throughout 2025.

Greater value on specialist skills

Candidates with experience in behaviour management, SEND, therapeutic support or safeguarding will stand out in the job market.

More pathway opportunities

Schools are increasingly open to long-term placements, creating progression opportunities and stable work for candidates seeking consistency.

Wellbeing and retention becoming a priority

Supportive working environments, good communication and well-matched placements will be high on the agenda for both schools and professionals.

The benefit of working with a specialist agency

Partnering with a recruitment provider that understands the education landscape ensures better matches, high-quality placements and consistent support throughout the year.

FAQs: Education Workforce Trends for 2026

1. Will support staff still be in high demand next year?

Yes. The support staff demand in the UK continues to rise, particularly in SEND and behaviour roles.

2. How will teacher shortages affect schools in 2026?

Ongoing shortages may increase workload pressures and raise the need for skilled support staff to maintain continuity and standards.

3. Which qualifications will be most valuable for candidates?

SEND training, safeguarding certificates, behaviour training, and any role-specific CPD will be especially beneficial.

4. Are long-term placements likely to increase in 2026?

Yes. Schools are prioritising stability and retention, meaning long-term placements are expected to grow in popularity.

5. How can working with Chalk Healthcare help?

We focus on high-quality matching, compliance, consistent communication and long-term support, helping both schools and candidates prepare for a successful 2026.

Plan Ahead With Confidence – Get in Touch

Whether you’re a school leader future-proofing your workforce, or a candidate exploring new opportunities for 2026, Chalk Healthcare is here to support you every step of the way.

Contact our team to discuss recruitment support or register your interest for upcoming roles. Let’s make 2026 a year of stability, progress and positive impact.