The National Federation of Teachers (Federação Nacional dos Professores or Fenprof) says around 23,000 pupils began the second term without all their assigned teachers and that 363 school‑hired posts remain unfilled, with the shortfall concentrated in the 1st Cycle (1.º Ciclo) of schooling. The situation is reported as worse than last year and affects early primary classes most severely, with some classes still operating without teachers. Families with school-age children and those considering schools this term should expect classroom disruption and contact local schools for contingency plans.
Teacher shortage leaves 20,000 pupils partially uncovered
Thursday, 15 January 2026AI summary
Context & Explainers
Fenprof is the National Federation of Teachers (Federação Nacional dos Professores), the main public‑school teachers' union in Portugal that represents teachers in pay, working conditions and education reforms. Its criticism matters because Fenprof can organize strikes and mobilise teachers, which directly affects school operations and the implementation of government changes — something families and expat educators should monitor.
The 1st Cycle (Portuguese 1.º ciclo do ensino básico) is Portugal's early primary education covering grades 1–4, typically for children aged about 6–10. Teacher shortages are currently concentrated in the 1st Cycle — Fenprof estimates about 23,000 pupils without all teachers and 363 school‑hired posts unfilled — so parents of young children and schools should expect temporary staffing or larger class sizes in affected areas.