Workload, lack of respect among key causes of why teachers leave profession, research finds

Vern Hildtich began his teaching career in 1973 and says the current climate is tough. (Supplied)

There is not much that Vern Hilditch has not seen in his 50 years of teaching — technology has improved, fashions have come and gone, and teaching methods have improved and adapted.

But one thing that's been ever-present in his tenure is the need — and shortage — of teachers in Australia.