Teaching
Teaching is a great career path because it provides a unique opportunity to inspire and empower the next generation with knowledge and skills that will shape their future. It's a career that lets you foster creativity, critical thinking, and a love for learning in your students and get a sense of fulfillment that comes from witnessing students' growth and success is immeasurable. It's a career that keeps you engaged, challenges you to adapt and innovate, and offers a chance to contribute significantly to the betterment of individuals and the community as a whole.
High Demand for Educators: Teaching is in high demand in Australia. The country's growing population and the need for quality education mean that there are plenty of job opportunities for teachers. Whether you want to teach young kids in primary school or help teenagers in high school, there's a place for you in the Australian education system.
Job Security: Once you become a qualified teacher, you'll find a stable job with great job security. In Australia, teachers are highly valued, and the profession is respected. Plus, there are opportunities for advancement into leadership roles within the education sector.
Competitive Salaries: Teachers in Australia receive competitive salaries, which are often supplemented by benefits like paid leave and professional development opportunities. This ensures that you are rewarded for your hard work and dedication.
Make a Difference: Teaching allows you to make a positive impact on the lives of students. You'll have the chance to inspire the next generation, help them learn new things, and guide them towards their dreams.
What a typical day looks like
- plan and prepare classroom lessons, activities and excursions for school students
- teach literacy, numeracy, social science, creative expression and physical education
- participate in staff meetings, educational conferences and workshops
- discuss individual progress and problems with students and parents, and seek advice from student counsellors and senior teachers
- lead discussions and supervise work in class
- prepare and mark tests, projects, homework and assignments to evaluate student progress
- ensure discipline in classrooms and school areas
- contribute to extra-curricular tasks such as sport, school concerts, excursions and special interest programs
How to become a Teacher
To become a teacher you need to study a Bachelor of Education majoring in either Primary Education or Secondary Education.
If you already have a degree in a relevant field, you can complete a Graduate Diploma in Education to qualify.
Another option is to start your career as a teacher's aide. Vocation qualifications such as a Certificate III in School Based Education Support qualifies, you to work under the guidance of teachers and professional educators in a variety of classroom settings. This qualification reflects the role of workers who assist teachers and support student learning in public, private or community schools across Australia.
Is this career for me?
Deciding if a career in teaching is right for you involves self-reflection and considering your skills, interests, and values. Here are ten questions to help you assess your suitability for a career in teaching:
- Do I have a passion for educating and inspiring others, particularly young people or learners of all ages?
- Can I communicate effectively and adapt my teaching style to different learning styles and abilities?
- Am I patient and empathetic, able to work with students who may have diverse backgrounds and needs?
- Do I have strong organizational and time-management skills to plan lessons, grade assignments, and meet deadlines?
- Can I handle the responsibility of creating a safe and inclusive learning environment for all students?
- Am I open to continuous learning and staying updated on educational trends and teaching methods?
- Do I enjoy problem-solving and finding creative ways to explain complex concepts?
- Can I manage classroom behavior and discipline in a fair and consistent manner?
- Am I comfortable working with parents and guardians, providing feedback, and addressing concerns?
- Can I handle the emotional aspects of teaching, such as the potential for frustration, stress, and the joy of witnessing student growth?
Reflecting on these questions will help you determine if a teaching career aligns with your personality, values, and skills. It's also beneficial to seek opportunities for classroom observation, speak with experienced educators, and consider volunteering or working as a teaching assistant to gain firsthand experience in an educational setting.
Want to Learn More?
To continue your exploring this as a career path visit the follow career and training websites and related links:
- Yourcareer.gov.au
- NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA)
- Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT)
- Queensland College of Teachers (QCT)
- Teachers Registration Board of South Australia
- Teachers Registration Board of Western Australia (TRBWA)
- Teachers Registration Board (TRB) Tasmania
- Teachers Registration Board (TRB) of the Northern Territory
- ACT Teacher Quality Institute (TQI)
ARTICLE SOURCES
LabourMarketinsights.gov.au
Yourcareer.gov.au
Note salary information source taken from ABS Survey of Employee Earnings and Hours, May 2021, Customised Report. Median weekly total cash earnings for full-time non-managerial employees paid at the adult rate. Earnings are before tax and include amounts salary sacrificed. Earnings can vary greatly depending on the skills and experience of the worker and the demands of the role. These figures should be used as a guide only, not to determine a wage rate.