Increase in the number of full-time equivalent teachers

Date published: 17 June 2025

New accredited official statistics published today by NISRA statisticians in the Department of Education presents data on teacher numbers, teacher vacancies and pupil:teacher ratios.

Key findings:

• The number of full-time equivalent (FTE) teachers is 20,123.6. This represents an increase of 230 from 19,893.6 in 2023/24.
• The median age of teachers is 43 years, an increase from 42.2 years in 2020/21. There are more teachers aged under 30 this year (12%) compared to 2020/21 (11.8%).
• The teacher headcount is 21,803, this represents an increase of 290 teachers from 2023/24.
• The headcount of male teachers in 2024/25 is 5,010, this is an increase of 94 from last year. The proportion of teachers working in all schools who are male has remained relatively constant over the last five years.

About the report

This statistical bulletin provides analysis of the latest annual data collections relating to teacher numbers and pupil:teacher ratios in grant-aided schools in 2024/25. The bulletins provide some analysis by school management type as well as the former Education and Library Board areas.

Further information

Read the full report: Teacher workforce statistics in grant-aided schools 2024/25

More information and data tables: Teacher workforce statistics