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Early Childhood Education Teacher Shortages: The Share of Qualified Teachers Varies Regionally

Author

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  • Kalmbach, Aino

Abstract

The share of qualified early childhood education teachers has declined even as the total number of teachers has increased. This reflects the fact that the number of qualified teachers has not grown at the same pace as the teacher workforce overall. Demand has been driven by rising participation rates. There are clear regional differences: in many areas the decline in the share of qualified teachers has been modest and the number of qualified teachers has continued to increase, but in some regions, particularly Uusimaa, the number of qualified teachers has fallen and shortages have worsened. This report examines regional differences in the demand and supply of teachers and assesses how early childhood teachers’ wages relative to regional average earnings are associated with the extent of teacher shortages. The analysis covers the years 2010–2022, during which teaching qualifications could be obtained through both university and university of applied sciences degrees. Qualification requirements have since changed, and the expansion of study places is increasing the number of graduates. From 2030 onwards the need for tertiary-educated staff will grow as a result of the new qualification requirements.

Suggested Citation

  • Kalmbach, Aino, 2025. "Early Childhood Education Teacher Shortages: The Share of Qualified Teachers Varies Regionally," ETLA Reports 169, The Research Institute of the Finnish Economy.
    • Handle: RePEc:rif:report:169
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    JEL classification:

    • J13 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Fertility; Family Planning; Child Care; Children; Youth
    • J45 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Particular Labor Markets - - - Public Sector Labor Markets
    • R23 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - Household Analysis - - - Regional Migration; Regional Labor Markets; Population

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