The Department of Educational Development and Vocational Training has received a total of 48,455 applications to participate in this year’s teaching exams, with 92% of them coming from candidates in Andalusia and the rest from other regions. This was announced by the counselor at the closing of the XVII Regional Conference of the Andalusian Association of Directors of Infant and Primary Schools and School Residences (ASADIPRE), held under the theme ‘Leading in the face of educational challenges’ in Torremolinos (Malaga).
The counselor expressed satisfaction with this level of participation, which contributes to the stabilization of the public teaching staff in the Andalusian educational system, particularly for teachers who will continue to improve diversity in education.
Furthermore, María del Carmen Castillo reported that a total of 33,000 teaching positions have been announced since 2019, demonstrating the Andalusian government’s commitment to solidifying the teaching staff in the educational system despite a decline in student numbers.
Castillo also detailed that 7,808 positions have been announced for this year across the various teaching bodies, including 4,401 positions for Teachers, Secondary School Teachers, Music and Performing Arts Teachers, and Official Language School Teachers. Additionally, this year will see the selection process for the Body of Music and Performing Arts Professors with 77 positions. As of 2025, the Department has announced a total of 7,885 positions, offering an opportunity for young Andalusians aspiring to become teaching officials.
The role of school leadership
The counselor highlighted the crucial role of school directors in achieving academic success for students and praised their specialized and cross-functional work. She emphasized that school leadership teams are «the most direct link between the educational community, teachers, and the administration, representing it in educational institutions.» She added, «It is clear that where there is a strong leadership team, there is a powerful school that provides quality education, support for students, and families.» She expressed gratitude for their daily efforts in solving a myriad of issues.
Additionally, the Head of Educational Development and Vocational Training stated that the Junta is committed to an educational project based on freedom, equality, and quality, recognizing excellence and valuing effort as essential elements in the educational process. She emphasized the goal of reaching as far as possible while ensuring that no one is left behind. She affirmed the need to offer students equal opportunities for quality education, guaranteeing that academic performance will be determined by effort and ability, regardless of their social, economic, or family background.
Furthermore, Castillo acknowledged that «we have significant challenges ahead, but we are determined to face them with firmness and political will.» Therefore, the Department is always open to a continuous, fluid dialogue process, with the input of school directors in Infant, Primary, and School Residences in Andalusia being crucial.