Dear Teacher, Wearing Two Hats Isn’t Easy—but It Can Work (With the Right Support)

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Teaching is already a full-time job!

You’re planning lessons, managing a classroom, marking books, checking in with parents, and trying to give your best to every child who walks through your door. Then, out of nowhere, you’re asked to take on an extra role—maybe handling school data, leading a department, or coordinating events.


Suddenly, you’re not just a teacher. You’re also part of the admin team.
And while it can be a great opportunity, it also comes with its fair share of pressure.


The Good Side Nobody Talks About Enough

Now, let’s give credit where it’s due—there are benefits.
Taking on administrative roles helps you grow in ways the classroom alone might not. You start to see the bigger picture. You get involved in decisions that shape how the school runs. You build your voice. And yes, you start to lead—even if you never planned to.


I remember meeting a teacher who doubled as her school’s exam officer. At first, she wasn’t thrilled. But after a few months, she found herself learning new systems, managing time better, and even mentoring other staff who needed help. 


She told me, “I didn’t know I had it in me until I was given the chance.”

That’s the thing—sometimes, these roles unlock potential we didn’t know was there.


Plus, it builds a team spirit. When teachers are part of the ‘behind-the-scenes’ work, they understand decisions better, they speak up more confidently, and they work together more intentionally.


But Let’s Talk About the Flip Side

It’s exhausting! 🥲


You’re still expected to show up for your students, plan engaging lessons, and give them your best energy. But now, on top of that, you’re handling reports, sending emails, attending extra meetings, or managing school programmes.


That’s a lot!


One teacher told me, “Sometimes I feel like I’m in two jobs at the same time—and I’m not sure I’m doing either one well.” That hit me hard. Because I know many teachers feel the same. They love teaching. They want to support their schools. But they also don’t want to burn out or lose their spark.


So, What’s the Way Forward?

If schools want teachers to take on extra roles—and let’s be fair, sometimes they truly have no choice due to limited staff—then they have to plan for it properly.


  • If someone’s doing admin work, reduce their teaching load a little.

  • Let teachers know what’s expected, when it’s due, and where they can get help.

  • Whether it’s through training, mentorship, or just a listening ear—support matters.

  • Ask teachers how they’re coping. Adjust things if it’s getting too much.


And as teachers, we also have to learn to check in with ourselves. If you're feeling overwhelmed, say so. If the load is too much, speak up. Protect your energy—because your wellbeing is just as important as your students’ progress.


☘️

Wearing two hats in a school system is not for the faint-hearted.


But with the right systems, clear communication, and real support, it can work. You can grow, lead, and still enjoy teaching.


You don’t have to carry the weight of the school on your shoulders alone.


You're allowed to ask for help. You’re allowed to say, “This isn’t working.”


 And you’re absolutely allowed to shine—on your own terms.


Did this article impact you? 😊 Feel free to share with other educators in your network.




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