Survey: Croatian teachers among most educated in Europe

Croatian teachers rank among the most educated in Europe, according to the 2024 Teaching and Learning International Survey (TALIS), which covered 53 countries and whose findings were presented.

Data show that 94.2% of Croatia's subject teachers hold a four- or five-year university degree, compared with an international average of 44.4%, CE Report quotes HINA.

In secondary schools, 87.4% have university qualifications, said Vinko Filipović, head of the National Centre for External Evaluation of Education, noting that not all vocational teachers require a full degree.

Over 90% of Croatian teachers have permanent contracts, well above the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) and European average of around 80%, making teaching one of the country’s most stable professions.

The OECD’s TALIS survey gathers views from teachers and school principals worldwide to improve teaching quality. In Croatia, it included 6,660 teachers and 439 principals from 296 primary and 200 secondary schools.

Filipović said 99% of Croatian teachers enjoy their profession and 90% are driven by enthusiasm. Over 80% feel appreciated by their students, and 70% would choose the same career again.

Compared with 2018, the use of teaching strategies that foster critical thinking has increased, reflecting stronger adoption of modern pedagogical approaches.

Croatian teachers are heavily engaged in professional development and count among Europe’s most educated, though many see a need for more practical experience and stronger digital skills.