Greece Ministry of Education announces large-scale teacher recruitment

The Greek Ministry of Education has announced the first phase of substitute teacher recruitment for the 2026–2027 academic year, involving 23,020 educators across primary, secondary, and special education sectors. These appointments are made under private law for a fixed term.

Education Minister Sofia Zacharaki stated at the 90th Thessaloniki International Fair that the total number of substitute teachers is expected to reach approximately 45,000 by the end of the year. She noted that the nearly 30,000 already announced represent the largest first-phase recruitment in the last decade. A second phase of hiring, potentially exceeding 6,000 additional positions, is planned for late September to address remaining vacancies.

In addition to teachers, the ministry is hiring specialized support staff, including psychologists, social workers, and occupational therapists, to support student needs. While most positions are filled, 35 vacancies remained unfilled in the first phase due to a lack of candidates, specifically in roles requiring proficiency in Braille or Greek Sign Language.