Schools are being kept afloat by dedicated support staff who go above and beyond every day to ensure children are safe, supported and ready to learn, according to a new UNISON report to mark Stars in Our Schools – the annual celebration of school support staff.
UNISON’s School Support Staff Survey 2025 – ‘Doing more with less’ shows schools are facing real challenges, but it also highlights the extraordinary commitment of the people who hold them together: teaching assistants, office staff, technicians, caterers, cleaners, librarians, early years practitioners and many more.
Their efforts, often behind the scenes, make an enormous difference to children’s lives – and today, schools across the UK are celebrating them.
Rising pressures, rising dedication
The survey of nearly 3,000 school support workers reveals that 59% have seen staffing levels fall in the past year, while only 6% have seen them rise. Despite this, support staff continue to step up to ensure pupils get the care and attention they need.
78% say there aren’t enough staff to fully meet pupils’ needs – yet staff continue to cover gaps, run clubs, support learning, manage pastoral care and keep children safe. Even when stretched, 94% say they persist in helping pupils as best they can.
One respondent summed it up: “We do everything we can because the children deserve it.”
Going the extra mile, even when no one sees it
The survey highlights the millions of hours of goodwill that support staff contribute across the school year. 61% work unpaid overtime, often staying late to prepare resources, support vulnerable children or finish essential admin.
70% say their jobs have expanded significantly, taking on new responsibilities – sometimes teaching, sometimes medical or pastoral roles – to stop pupils missing out.
The impact on children is immeasurable: calmer classrooms, timely interventions, a friendly face at the gate, a safe lunch hour, or a trusted adult when life feels difficult. These are the moments that support staff quietly make possible every day.
A workforce that loves what they do, deserves recognition
Although low pay, high workload and uncertainty are challenges, support staff remain proud of the difference they make. Many describe their connection with pupils as the reason they stay in the job, even when times are tough.
One worker said: “The children appreciate us – that’s what keeps me going.”
Another added:“Parents and pupils say thank you, and that means a lot.”
This commitment is why UNISON’s Stars in Our Schools campaign shines a spotlight every year on the people who ensure schools are welcoming, safe and nurturing places to learn.
Time to invest in education
UNISON emphasises that recognition must be matched with action. With 77% of workers worried about further budget cuts and 38% already looking for better-paid jobs, investment is urgently needed to keep experienced staff in schools.
UNISON head of education Mike Short said:
“Goodwill alone can’t sustain the system. Staff deserve fair pay, proper staffing levels and recognition for the vital work they do.”
“The upcoming School Support Staff Negotiating Body is an important opportunity to secure better conditions – backed by the funding schools clearly need.”
Despite the pressures highlighted in the report, Stars In Our Schools is about celebration. Support staff make schools brighter, safer and happier places – and children feel the benefit every single day.
Whether helping a child learn to read, serving a hot meal, keeping buildings safe, or offering comfort when things are tough, school support staff are the heartbeat of education.
Across the UK, they are getting the recognition they truly deserve – thank you for your incredible commitment, compassion, and hard work.