Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Education Worker
Art Teacher
Art Teacher (Private Tuition)
Dance Teacher - on another page on this site
Education Aide
Educational Officer [Museum or Art Gallery] - on another page on this site
Early Childhood Teacher - on another page on this site
Music Teacher
Primary Teacher
School Principal
Secondary Teacher
Special Education Teacher
Teacher of English to Speakers of other Languages [ESL]
Teacher of the Hearing Impaired
Teacher of the Sight Impaired
Vocational Education and Training [VET] Lecturer

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Overview: School Teacher

School teachers create and teach lessons on a many different topics to help students develop and improve. School teachers teach their students in a number of different ways, including formal lessons, discussions, hands-on activities, experiments, projects, assignments, excursions and games. School teachers undertake specific training to teach in secondary schools, primary schools, or early childhood settings.

Education Aides perform non-teaching duties to assist teaching staff in schools, provide care and supervision for children in preschools, and provide assistance to Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and Maori students and their teachers.

Teacher's aides assist teaching staff in schools by performing non-teaching duties such as care and supervision for children. They assist and participate in learning activities, prepare learning areas and activities, and provide individual assistance to students, particularly those with learning, physical or behavioural difficulties.

Teacher's aides are needed throughout Australia, from the large schools in our cities and towns to the small remote schools in isolated country areas.


ANZSCO ID & description: 4221: Assists teaching staff in preparing teaching materials and with general classroom tasks.

Alternative names: Education Aide, Teacher's Assistant, Education Support Worker, Teacher's Aide

Specialisations: Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander Education Worker, School Services Officer, Special Needs Teacher's Assistant, Student Liaison Officer, Teachers' Assistant, Pre-school Teacher's Aide, Special Needs Teaching Aide

Knowledge, skills and attributes

A teachers aide needs:

• an interest in education and a love of learning
• flexibility and adaptability
• organisational skills
• good communication skills
• the ability to relate to children
• the ability to accept direction and supervision

(Source: Education Aotearoa)

Duties and Tasks

• demonstrating, supervising and participating in activities which enhance the physical, social, emotional and intellectual development of children in schools and preschool centres
• preparing indoor and outdoor areas for learning and recreational activities
• assisting children with intellectual, physical and behavioural difficulties with their academic studies
• assisting children individually to learn social skills
• assisting with preparing teaching aids, and copying and collating written and printed material
• distributing and collecting lesson material
• providing assistance to small groups of Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and Maori students
• providing home-school liaison and counselling for Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and Maori students and their families

Working conditions

Teachers aides work mostly indoors in classrooms, libraries and other buildings in public and private schools, although they may also accompany school classes on field trips or outdoor activities. They often work part-time, but may also be employed on an ongoing basis, and they work within school hours, between 8am and 4pm. During their work they meet and connect with children, parents, teachers and other members of school staff. Teacher's aide work is more prevalent in pre-primary and primary education, however opportunities may also be available in secondary education for students with special needs.

Tools and technologies

Teachers' aides are often required to make copies of education resources, and may need to be familiar with photocopying equipment. They may also need to be familiar with word processing and other computer programs.

Education and training/entrance requirements

To become a teachers’ aide, you usually need to complete a formal qualification in education support.

The Certificate III and Certificate IV in Education Support are available from TAFE Colleges and other registered training organisations throughout Australia.

You can also complete a traineeship. The education assistant, Indigenous language and culture teaching assistant, education officer, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander education officer traineeships usually take 12 months to complete.

To work in schools in Australia, you need to hold a current Working With Children Check issued by the Department of Community Services, and undergo a National Police History Check conducted by the Department of Education Screening Unit. Contact the Department of Education for more information.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Workers assist Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students in their education, provide feedback to parents or guardians and teachers about students' progress, and liaise with educational bodies, government agencies and committees.

An Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Worker supports Indigenous students during their school activities. You might assist individual students with their classroom lessons or work with small groups of students on educational activities. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Workers are often employed in primary or secondary schools but you might also work in early childhood centres or other educational facilities.

An Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Worker should be passionate about learning and also about Indigenous culture. You should be able to work with a range of students with various abilities and be flexible with your approach. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Workers need to be understanding and be good at communicating.

ANZSCO ID: 422111
  
Alternative names: Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Education Worker
   
Specialisations: Aboriginal Education Worker Coordinator, Aboriginal Home-School Liaison Officer

Knowledge, skills and attributes

To become an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander education worker, you would need:

• the ability to listen carefully to students’ needs and desires

• to enjoy helping children learn

• maturity and sensibility

• patience

• the ability to mediate conflict

• good teamwork skills

• the ability to accept direction.

(Source: Teach in the Territory)

Duties and Tasks

As an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander education worker, you might:

• work as a team member alongside other teachers and education staff

• support teachers to embed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives across the curriculum

• provide advice and leadership to schools on celebrating significant events and milestones for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

• support schools to grow a culture of high expectations for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students

• facilitate successful student transitions between year levels, between schools and to post school study or work

• support schools to meet Cultural Integrity accountability responsibilities

• provide observations to teachers, parents and guardians on student progress

• assist students with opportunities to develop personal, social and independent learning skills

• work with individual students with intellectual, physical or behavioural difficulties to support their specific areas of need

• reinforce appropriate behaviours in the classroom - assists children individually to learn social skills.

• organise and collate literacy and numeracy activities

• prepare indoor or outdoor areas for learning or recreational activities

• assist with the creation of classroom displays or presentations

• share responsibility for the safety and physical well-being of children at all times.

• demonstrate, supervise and participate in activities which enhance the physical, social, emotional and intellectual development of children in schools and preschool centres.

• assists children with intellectual, physical and behavioural difficulties with their academic studies.

• assist with preparing teaching aids by copying and collating written and printed material.

• distribute and collect lesson material.

• provide assistance to small groups of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.

• provide home-school liaison and counselling for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and their families.

(Source: Dept of Education WA)

Working conditions

In a full-time role, you would normally work a standard number of hours during the week, Your working hours outside of school hours would vary depending on the type of setting you work in and what classes you assist with.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander education workers typically work schools. They may also work in other educational facilities, such as day-care facilities, childcare centres or in universities.


Education and training/entrance requirements
  
You can work as an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Worker without formal qualifications, however, a certificate III or IV in education support may be useful. You can work as an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander education worker without formal qualifications, but employers usually require junior secondary school certificate or equivalent. Your employment prospects may be improved if you have qualifications such as a VET qualification in education support. You may be able to study through distance education.

To work as an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander education worker, or to undertake work placements while studying, you would need a first aid certificate, and a Working with Children Check or equivalent. A National Police Certificate may also be required.

In some States, applicants for this position must be of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent.

  
Employment Opportunities

Employment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander educational workers is projected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations. Employment growth will come from increases in student enrolments in early childhood centres, preschools and primary schools.

This is a very small occupation, so opportunities may be quite limited in some regions.

Primary school teachers educate children between the ages of five and twelve in Australia. Primary school teachers educate primary school children by planning and conducting an education programme to develop literacy and numeracy, as well as the physical, emotional, intellectual and social growth of their students and other academic skills. They prepare daily lesson plans that fit within wider curriculum requirements, and teach a wide range of subject areas including mathematics, English, science and technology, society and environment, health, creative arts and physical education. Primary school teachers are needed all over the state - from our busy urban areas to rural and regional centres and towns to remote communities in isolated areas.

ANZSCO ID & description: 241213: Teaches and coordinates a range of subjects within a prescribed curriculum to primary school students. Registration or licensing is required.

Specialisations:
Primary school teachers are usually trained to teach the whole curriculum. Some undertake further studies to become specialist primary teachers who develop and teach programmes for students with special needs, rural and isolated children or children for whom English is a second language. In some schools, primary school teachers teach languages other than English if they have the appropriate qualifications, skills and experience.

• Aboriginal Education Teacher (Primary) - An Aboriginal education teacher (primary) teaches specially designed programmes to Indigenous primary school students.
• Teacher Librarian - Primary - A teacher librarian - primary manages the school's learning resources in addition to undertaking the duties of a teacher. Teacher librarians play a key role in teaching cross-curricular skills in information literacy and provide professional development for other teachers. They help students to seek, critically evaluate, synthesise and present information using a range of resources and information technologies. They expose students to a variety of genres (writing styles) in print and digital formats, and promote the best quality literature and authors to reflect different cultures and themes. Teacher librarians ensure the library resource centre is multi-functional and a focal point for student learning.

Knowledge, skills and attributes

A primary school teacher needs:

• to enjoy working with children
• a friendly and personable demeanor
• patience and tolerance in dealing with students of differing abilities
• organisational skills and creativity
• able to communicate simply and clearly
• leadership and motivational skills
• a supportive and caring nature
• prepared to work outside of school hours.

(Source: University of WA)

Duties and Tasks

Primary school teachers may perform the following tasks:

• prepare daily and longer-term lesson plans in accordance with curriculum guidelines
• teach a full range of learning areas, including English (reading, writing, speaking and listening), mathematics, science, technology, society and environment, creative arts, personal development, health and physical education
• develop children's interests, abilities and coordination using creative activities such as art, music and sport
• use computers to assist with lesson preparation, teaching and reporting
• develop and maintain good working habits and discipline in classrooms
• carry out administrative duties
• supervise students during classes and at other times in the school day, including in the playground during breaks
• attend staff meetings and other training and development sessions
• take part in joint decision-making about educational issues
• assess and evaluate students' progress in written and oral work
• discuss students' progress and concerns with parents and administrators
• assist with and organise sporting activities, school concerts and excursions
• prepare for and attend parent-teacher interviews and other functions.

Working conditions

Primary school teachers work in classrooms in primary schools, but may also undertake their duties in school libraries, administrative areas, outside in the playground or sports areas, and outside of school during excursions, field trips, sporting events or camps. Working conditions may be noisy or stressful. They usually work regular teaching hours, but are expected to work longer hours to plan and prepare lessons, mark work, and attend staff meetings or school events like fetes or graduation ceremonies.

Primary school teachers need to continually update their subject knowledge and teaching methods through private study and professional development activities. With further training and experience, they may be promoted to a position of educational leadership, such as primary school principal.

Tools and technologies

Primary school teachers use a range of educational resources such as white boards, workbooks and textbooks, audio-visual texts and equipment and a range of other teaching aids. They also use computers and other office equipment, and may also, depending on their role, use art and craft materials, musical instruments or sporting equipment.

Education and training/entrance requirements

To become a primary school teacher you usually need to complete an education degree majoring in primary education. Alternatively, you can study a degree in any area followed by the completion of a postgraduate qualification specialising in primary education.

Secondary school teachers teach one or a number of subject areas to students in Years 7 to 12.  Subject areas include English, mathematics, science, history, geography, social studies, drama, dance, art, music, health and physical education, design, information technology, languages other than English, technology, home economics, hospitality and in some cases religious studies.

Secondary school teachers need to continually update their subject knowledge and teaching methods through private study and professional development activities.

ANZSCO ID & description: 241411: Teaches one or more subjects within a prescribed curriculum to secondary school students and promotes students' social, emotional, intellectual and physical development. Registration or licensing is required.

Alternative names: High School Teacher

Specialisations:

• Aboriginal Education Teacher (Secondary) - An Aboriginal education teacher (secondary) teaches specially designed programmes to Indigenous secondary school students.
    
• English Teacher - Secondary - An english teacher - secondary teaches students communication, writing and critical thinking skills in response to a wide array of literature and media. They guide students in understanding the different concepts and themes that are present in literary and media-based material and inform them of their historical context.
    
• Mathematics Teacher - Secondary - A mathematics teacher - secondary teaches the fundamentals of mathematics in areas such as geometry, calculus, algebra and statistics. They help students to develop analytical skills through the application of mathematics in everyday life.
    
• Science Teacher - Secondary - A science teacher - secondary teaches students the scientific principles of the world around them. They may also specialise in areas such as biology, human biology, chemistry, physics and environmental science.
    
• Teacher Librarian - Secondary - A teacher librarian - secondary manages the school's learning resources in addition to undertaking the duties of a teacher. Teacher librarians play a key role in teaching cross-curricular skills in information literacy and provide professional development for other teachers. They help students to seek, critically evaluate, synthesise and present information using a range of resources and information technologies. They expose students to a variety of genres (writing styles) in print and digital formats and promote the best quality literature and authors to reflect different cultures and themes. Teacher librarians ensure the library resource centre is multi-functional and a focal point for student learning.

Knowledge, skills and attributes

A secondary school teacher needs:

• enthusiasm for, and ability in, their chosen subject area and teaching high-level
• to enjoy working with young people
• able to communicate concepts and instructions clearly
• a friendly and personable demeanor
• patience and tolerance when dealing with students of differing abilities and cultures
• organisational skills
• acceptance of the rights and needs of all individuals
• prepared to work outside of school hours
• leadership and motivational skills
• a supportive and caring nature

(Source: NSW Dept of Education)

Duties and Tasks

Secondary school teachers may perform the following tasks:

• prepare daily lessons and long-term teaching programmes in accordance with state or territory curriculum and guidelines
• teach using a variety of methods, including formal lessons, discussions, practical activities, experiments, projects, assignments and excursions, taking into account the differences between individual students
• use information technology to assist with lesson preparation, teaching and reporting
• set tests, exams, projects, assignments and homework; mark and correct assessments; and sort the results
• evaluate and report on the progress of students, and discuss individual performance and problems with students and parents
• establish and maintain good working habits and discipline in classrooms and throughout the school
• supervise extra classes when other teachers are absent
• supervise students in the yard during lunchtime and other breaks
• carry out relevant administrative duties
• attend staff meetings, educational conferences and other professional development activities
• coordinate work experience and industry-based programmes
• participate in other activities in partnership with parents and the school community, including parent-teacher nights, school council and other committees
• assist with organising sporting events, camping trips and other excursions
• be involved in distance education (for example, teaching using radio and television transmission, correspondence, audiovisual and other multimedia resources)
• coordinate administrative support programmes and the work of non-teaching staff in schools
• network with other teachers
• work with other staff to revise the school's policies and curriculum implementation to reflect changing student needs and government initiatives.

Working conditions

Secondary school teachers work in high schools and senior campuses. They usually work regular teaching hours, but are expected to work additional hours to prepare for classes, attend staff meetings and undertake administrative tasks such as marking and writing reports. They may also be required to work additional hours to take students on excursions or camps, or to attend assemblies, graduations or other school functions. Secondary school teachers are also expected to attend professional development seminars and sessions.Secondary school teachers need to continually update their subject knowledge and teaching methods through private study and professional development activities.

Tools and technologies

Secondary school teachers use a range of educational teachnologies and tools to develop and deliver learning, such as white boards, workbooks and textbooks, audio-visual texts and equipment, and a range of other teaching aids. They also use computers and other office equipment, and may also, depending on their role, use materials or equipment that is relevant to the subject area in which they teach, such as art and craft supplies, sports equipment, film and video or photographic equipment, or other teaching aids relevant to their specialisation.

Education and training/entrance requirements

To become a secondary school teacher you usually need to complete a degree in secondary education. Alternatively, you can undertake a postgraduate qualification in secondary education after completing a degree in a relevant study area.

Additional Information

Before undertaking practical placements required by courses, students will need to obtain a Working with Children Check (NSW) or a Working with Vulnerable People Check (ACT). A National Police Certificate may also be required. Teaching in schools in NSW requires accreditation with the Board of Studies, Teaching and Educational Standards (BOSTES). Teaching in schools in the ACT requires registration with the ACT Teacher Quality Institute.

Teachers are required by mandatory reporting laws to report suspected cases of child abuse or neglect.

Employment Opportunities

Secondary school teachers work in government and non-government schools. Some teachers are able to work in private practice, offering tutorial and subject-coaching services to students. Competition for positions in metropolitan government and non-government schools is strong. Teachers should be prepared to move to areas of need (rural areas, for example) to secure a job or a promotion to a senior position. Once employed, the prospects for advancement can be enhanced by obtaining higher qualifications.

With further training and experience, a secondary school teacher may be promoted to a position of educational leadership, such as secondary school principal.

Did You Know? The Australian Curriculum ..... The Australian Curriculum describes what young Australians should learn as they progress through schooling. It is the foundation for their future learning, growth and active participation in the Australian community. It sets out essential knowledge, understanding, skills and capabilities and provides a national standard for student achievement in core learning areas. The council of federal, state and territory education ministers is responsible for endorsing the Australian Curriculum. State and territory education authorities are responsible for implementation of the Australian Curriculum and for supporting schools and teachers. (Source: Australian Curriculum)

Art teachers working in schools teach students painting, drawing, printmaking, photography, sculpture and ceramics. Art teachers teaching in secondary school teach the practical skills and theory of various art forms, and may also teach the history of these art forms. Depending on the school's facilities, art teachers may set-up and operate kilns, photographic darkrooms or other specialist art studios and/or equipment. When planning lessons and projects they must ensure that there are sufficient art supplies and tools for all students. Some art teachers may arrange exhibitions of student art work within a school and the local community. They may also work privately or at art centres.

Art teachers in secondary schools teach students the practical skills, theory and history of art. Students receive tuition in aspects such as painting, drawing, printmaking, photography, sculpture and ceramics. Art teachers may specialise in one or more aspects of art in their tertiary studies (such as history and appreciation of art, ceramics, drawing, film and video, painting, pottery, printmaking, sculpture and visual communication), as well as studying the elements of design, graphics, product design and environmental studies.

ANZSCO ID: 241411

Alternative names: Creative Arts Teacher, Visual Arts Techer,

Knowledge, skills and attributes     

• artistic talent

• enjoy creative work

• enthusiastic, patient and tactful

• good communication skills

• a commitment to ongoing professional development

• creativity

• good organisational skills

• enjoy teaching and working with young people

• prepared to work outside of school hours

(Source: Good Universities Guide)

Duties and Tasks

• undertake general teaching tasks

• set up and maintain facilities such as photographic darkrooms, kilns for ceramic work, studios and storage areas

• order and maintain art resources and materials within the budget allowance

• demonstrate the use of art materials and tools such as oils, watercolours, palettes and palette knives, brushes, pens, pencils, dyes, clay, fabric, canvas and paper

• inspire students and assist them to develop their creativity and self-expression through various art forms and media

• arrange for exhibitions of student work in and out of school
  

Working conditions

Most art teachers work in private and public schools throughout Australia - teaching students from Year 1 through to Year 12. While they work regular school hours, they are also expected to work additional hours to prepare for lessons, attend staff meetings and carry out administrative tasks, such as marking and report writing. Teachers in any discipline (including art) are also expected to attend regular professional development courses.

Tools and technologies

Art teachers work with a range of media and materials, which may include pencils, paints, palette knives, dyes, paper, canvases, clay and textiles. Some art teachers may also use textbooks, whiteboards and other standard classroom equipment, especially when teaching art theory and history. They may also use computers, especially when they are teaching digital art forms, and when writing student performance reports.

Education and training/entrance requirements

To become an art teacher, you usually need to study a degree in education majoring in visual arts education. Alternatively you can study a degree in visual arts or fine art, followed by a postgraduate degree in education. To become an art teacher you usually need to complete a 4-year integrated course or double degree in which the subject area and teaching components are taught throughout (a Bachelor of Education with a major in creative, graphic or visual arts, for example). Alternatively, you can complete a degree with a major in creative, graphic or visual arts, followed by a postgraduate qualification in education such as a Masters of Education.

To get into the degree courses you usually need to gain your HSC/ACT Year 12. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in one or more of English, mathematics, visual arts and design are normally required. Applicants may also be required to submit a portfolio and attend an interview. A number of institutions in Australia offer relevant degrees. Institutions have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements.

Additional Information

Before undertaking practical placements required by courses, students will need to obtain a Working with Children Check (NSW) or a Working with Vulnerable People Check (ACT). A National Police Certificate may also be required. Contact the institutions you are interested in for more information.

Teaching in schools in NSW requires accreditation with the Board of Studies, Teaching and Educational Standards (BOSTES). See www.nswteachers.nsw.edu.au for further information. Teaching in schools in the ACT requires registration with the ACT Teacher Quality Institute. See www.tqi.act.edu.au for further information.

Teachers are required by mandatory reporting laws to report suspected cases of child abuse or neglect.

Employment Opportunities

Art teachers in NSW and the ACT are employed in both government and non-government schools, generally at secondary level. Graduate employment prospects are better for those who are willing to work in non-metropolitan areas.

Art Teachers (Private Tuition) teach art in private training establishments. Private Art Teacher instructs individual students in the practice, theory and history of art. They usually specialise in one aspect of art and teach from their own home or studio.

ANZSCO ID: 249211

Duties and Tasks

• Plans programmes of study for individual students and groups.

• Prepares and presents material on the theory of the subject area.

• Instructs and demonstrates practical aspects of the subject area.

• Assigns problems and exercises relative to students' training needs and talents.

• Assesses students and offers advice, criticism and encouragement.

• Revises curricula, course content, course materials and methods of instruction.

• Prepares students for examinations, performances and assessments.

• Keep abreast of developments in the subject area by attending professional conferences, seminars and courses, reading current literature, and talking with colleagues.

• May arrange visits and tours to professional exhibitions and performances.

• May organise exhibitions or performances of students' work.

Education and training/entrance requirements

You need a high level of artistic ability to work as an Art Teacher (Private Tuition). Formal qualifications might be useful but aren't essential. VET (Vocational Education and Training) and university are both common study pathways for Art Teachers (Private Tuition).

Music teachers help students to develop their theoretical music skills, as well as instructing them in singing or playing musical instruments. They plan lessons based around the skill level of their students and teach them how to read, play or sing music. They also introduce their students to different styles of music, teach them the different practical applications of music theory, and discuss key concepts of music history, musical form and musical analysis with their students. Music teachers may also prepare students for musical exams or assessments, record their progress, mark their students' work, and organise rehearsals and performances for schools bands and choirs. Music teachers work right round the state in our cities and towns.


ANZSCO ID & description: 249214: Teaches students in the practice, theory and performance of music in private training establishments.

Alternative names: Music Teacher

Specialisations: Instrumental Teacher, Private Music Tutor, School Music Teacher, Singing Teacher (Private Tuition)

Knowledge, skills and attributes

A music teacher needs:

• a love of and passion for music
• musical abillity
• a helpful and instructive manner
• patience and an encouraging nature
• organisational skills
• communication skills

(Source: Australian Music Teachers)

Duties and Tasks

• planning programs of study for individual students and groups
• preparing and presenting material on the theory of the subject area
• instructing and demonstrating practical aspects of the subject area
• assigning problems and exercises relative to students' training needs and talents
• assessing students and offering advice, criticism and encouragement
• revising curricula, course content, course materials and methods of instruction
• preparing students for examinations, performance and assessments
• keeping abreast of developments in the subject area by attending professional conferences, seminars and courses, reading current literature, and talking with colleagues
• may arrange visits and tours to professional exhibitions and performances
• may organise for exhibitions or performances of students' work
  

Working conditions

Music teachers either work as classroom teachers who usually lead classes of students in weekly music lessons and group music activities, or as one-on-one tutors who teach students how to play one specific instrument. They may work in school classrooms and offices, from home, at their student's home, at a studio space or music school, or in rented public spaces such as a community hall or recreation centre.

Classroom-based music teachers work regular school hours as well as longer hours to attend meetings, mark work and take care of administrative duties, whilst independent music teachers work irregular hours at times that are convenient for their students. They generally require quiet spaces to teach, and may need to organise for instruments such as pianos or drum kits to be available. They may need to travel to get to their lessons.

Tools and technologies

Music teachers use a range of musical instruments, as well as music reference books, sheet music, music stands and other musical equipment. They may use music recording equipment and audio-visual devices as teaching aids, and may also use computers and specialist musical software to teach the theoretical or practical aspects of music.

Education and training/entrance requirements

You can work as a private music teacher without any formal qualifications. However, you are more likely to improve your employment prospects if you have formal qualifications in music, or have a high level of musical ability and experience in teaching music. VET courses in music are offered at TAFE colleges, and other registered training organisations throughout Australia.

You can also complete a degree majoring in music or music studies. Most courses require an audition and you may be required to demonstrate a high level of musical proficiency.

To work with children in Australia, you must obtain a Working with Children Check.

Special needs teachers educate primary and secondary school students who have special learning needs such as learning difficulties, an impairment in their intellectual abilities, or students who need extra support to reach their full potential.

Special needs teachers assess students' abilities and limitations and aid students in the development of their literacy, numeracy and other academic skills, as well as fostering independence and life skills. They may also meet with parents and other teachers to discuss a student's progress.


ANZSCO ID & description: 241511: Teaches academic and living skills to primary, middle or intermediate, and secondary school students with particular learning difficulties using various techniques, and promotes students' social, emotional, intellectual and physical development. Registration or licensing is required.

Alternative names: Special needs teacher

Knowledge, skills and attributes

​A special needs teacher needs:

• to enjoy working with young people with special needs
• patience and understanding
• a supportive and caring nature
• excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• the ability to motivate and guide others
• to be able to work as part of team.

(Source: NSW Department of Education)

Duties and Tasks

• assessing students' abilities and limitations with regard to intellectual, physical, social and emotional disabilities, exceptional intellectual gifts, or specific problems of language and culture
• planning, organising and implementing special programs to provide remedial or advanced tuition
• administering various forms of assessment and interpreting the results
• teaching basic academic subjects, and practical and self-help skills to hearing and sight impaired students
• devising instructional materials, methods and aids to assist in training and rehabilitation
• advising, instructing and counselling parents and teachers on the availability and use of special techniques
• stimulating and developing interests, abilities, manual skills and coordination
• conferring with other staff members to plan and schedule lessons for special needs students
• preparing and maintaining student data and other records and submitting reports
  

Working conditions

​Special needs teachers mainly work in the education sector, in special education units teaching individuals or groups with special needs. They create educational plans for each student to address individual needs and enhance learning. They may also help integrate students into regular classrooms.

Special needs teachers usually work regular school hours, but may be required to work additional hours to prepare for classes and to attend staff meetings.


Tools and technologies

​Special needs teachers may use a variety of assistive technology to educate students with special needs. They may use communication boards, computers with text-to-speech or voice operated software, talking calculators or tablet computers. They may also use standard teaching materials, such as whiteboards, textbooks and workbooks.

Education and training/entrance requirements

​To become a special needs teacher, you usually need to complete a degree in primary or secondary education, specialising in special needs teaching.

Alternatively, you can complete a degree in a relevant study area, followed by a postgraduate qualification in education. You may also need to undertake further postgraduate study in special needs education to specialise in teaching special needs students.

To work as a special needs teacher in Australia, you must be registered. You also need to hold a current Working With Children Check and undergo a National Police History Check conducted by the Department of Education Screening Unit.

Teachers of English to Speakers of other Languages [ESL] teach classes in English to students whose first language is a language other than English.  

ANZSCO ID: 2493

Duties and Tasks

• assessing the extent of language difficulties in students for whom English is a second language
• teaching students individually and in small groups out of the regular classroom, and assisting students within normal classroom settings
• teaching students English language skills using a variety of methods including lecture and visual demonstration
• providing assistance to other classroom teachers by designing special teaching programs for students with English language difficulties
• designing and producing teaching materials and adapting existing materials
• preparing course outlines and goals
• assigning lessons, correcting homework, and preparing and grading exams
• analysing, recording and reporting progress to regular classroom teachers, parents and students

Education and training/entrance requirements

A Bachelor Degree or higher is usually needed to work in this job. Nearly all workers have a university degree. Registration or licensing may be required.

Teachers of the hearing impaired educate primary or secondary school students who are deaf or hard of hearing. They plan and conduct educational programs that promote the intellectual, physical and  social growth of students and support students in the development of their literacy, numeracy and other academic skills.
  
Teachers of the hearing impaired may teach a wide range of subjects in a support unit for the hearing impaired, or help support students in classes in mainstream schools. They may use a variety of signed languages to teach and communicate in the classroom.

ANZSCO ID & description: 241512: Teaches academic and living skills to hearing impaired students, and promotes students' social, emotional, intellectual and physical development. Registration or licensing is required.

Knowledge, skills and attributes

A teacher of the hearing impaired needs:

• to enjoy working with young people
• patience and understanding
• a passion for teaching
• good problem solving skills
• the ability to motivate and guide others
• excellent interpersonal and communication skills

(Source: University of Melbourne)

Working conditions

Teachers of the hearing impaired may work in specialist schools or facilities for hearing impaired students. They may also work as visiting teachers to provide support to hearing impaired students and their teachers, educational assistants or interpreters.

Teachers of the hearing impaired usually work regular school hours, but may be required to work additional hours to prepare for classes and to attend staff meetings.

Tools and technologies

​Teachers of the hearing impaired may use a variety of assistive technologies in their classroom. They may use sound enhancement technology, such as classroom-wide amplification systems, or personal radio systems consisting of a microphone worn by the teacher that transmits their voice to the student’s receiver. They may also use interactive whiteboards or multimedia with captions.

Education and training/entrance requirements

To become a teacher of the hearing impaired, you usually need to complete a degree in primary or secondary education. Alternatively, you can complete a degree in a relevant study area, followed by a postgraduate qualification in education.

You will also need to complete further postgraduate study to specialise in teaching hearing impaired students.

The University of Newcastle offers the two year Master of Special Education (Deaf and Hard of Hearing) through distance education.

You also need to hold a current Working With Children Check and undergo a National Police History Check conducted by the Department of Education Screening Unit.

Teaches academic and living skills to sight impaired students, and promotes students' social, emotional, intellectual and physical development. Registration or licensing is required.
   
ANZSCO ID & description: 241513: Teaches academic and living skills to sight impaired students, and promotes students' social, emotional, intellectual and physical development. Registration or licensing is required.


Knowledge, skills and attributes

​A teacher of the sight impaired needs:

• to enjoy working with young people
• patience and understanding
• good organisation and time management skills
• excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• the ability to motivate and guide others
• a working knowledge of braille.

(Source: ABC News)

Working conditions

​Teachers of the sight impaired usually work as visiting teachers within a region in the State. They may visit students at their home, at a designated school, or in their classroom to provide assistance and support to students. They may also advise and consult with the students’ teachers, educational assistants and parents. They may be required to travel to different schools to visit a number of students.

Tools and technologies

​Teachers of the sight impaired may teach students how to use a number of assistive technologies such as braille writers, talking calculators and braille computers. They may also help students to use magnification aides, video magnifiers such as closed circuit television viewers, and screen reading software.

Education and training/entrance requirements

To become a teacher of the sight impaired, you usually need to complete a degree in primary or secondary education. Alternatively, you can complete a degree in a relevant study area, followed by a postgraduate qualification in education.

You will also need to complete further postgraduate study to specialise in teaching sight impaired students.

The University of Newcastle offers the two year Master of Special Education (Blind and Vision Impairment) via distance education.

To work as a teacher in Australia, you must be registered  and you also need to hold a current Working With Children Check and undergo a National Police History Check conducted by the Department of Education Screening Unit.  

Vocational Education Teachers teach one or more subjects within a prescribed course of study at technical and further education (TAFE) institutes, polytechnics and other training institutes to tertiary students for vocational education and training purposes.

Vocational education and training lecturers teach one or more subjects to
students attending training institutions such as TAFE and private registered training organisations. They develop and write course content and present lectures, as well as planning and conducting tutorials, seminars, workshops and other practical teaching activities. VET lecturers also prepare and mark assignments, examinations and other course work, advise students on their course work, and undertake administrative tasks. They may also serve an advisory role in the industry or field in which they teach. VET lecturers work all over the Australia, in educational institutions in regional centres and the cities.  

ANZSCO ID & description: 242211: Teaches one or more subjects within a prescribed course of study at a technical and further education (TAFE) institute, polytechnic or other training institute to tertiary students for vocational education and training purposes.

Alternative names: Vocational Education Teacher

Knowledge, skills and attributes

A VET lecturer needs:

• strong written and oral communication skills
• expertise in their field or industry
• leadership and motivational ability
• organisational skills
• to be able to offer practical advice
• a passion for and commitment to teaching

(Source: The Conversation)

 

Duties and Tasks

• identifying the various needs of students and creating effective learning options to meet these needs

• liaising with individuals, industry and education sectors to ensure provision of relevant programs and services

• planning, designing and developing course curriculum and method of instruction

• advising students on courses and related matters

• teaching students using teaching aids including presentation of lesson materials, discussions, workshops, laboratory sessions, multimedia aids and computer tutorials

• marking and grading students' assignments, papers and exams and providing feedback to students about their progress

• maintaining records of students' progress, attendance and training activities

• consulting with Education Managers, Librarians, Student Counsellors and other support staff

Working conditions

VET lecturers work in the offices, lecture theatres, workshops and classrooms of vocational education and training institutions. They usually work regular business hours, but may be required to work later if their classes are scheduled for late afternoons or early mornings. They are usually required to offer competency-based training in their area of expertise, which includes both practical and theoretical learning in a simulated or real workplace environment. They may be employed on either a full-time or a part-time basis. Full-time VET lecturers usually work on-campus most of the work week, whereas part-time lecturers may be on campus only during those times that they are teaching. VET teachers who do not train full-time may also work in the field in which they lecture.

Tools and technologies

VET lecturers use computers, and especially word processing, power point and spreadsheet or data management software. They use overhead projectors and other audio-visual equipment in lectures and tutorials. They may also demonstrate the use of other equipment that is used specifically in their field of expertise.

 
Education and training/entrance requirements

To become a vocational education and training (VET) lecturer you usually require significant practical or industry experience in your chosen field. However, the required qualification for all VET lecturers is the Certificate IV in Training and Assessment. VET lecturers who do not hold this qualification must complete it within two years of commencing their employment.

The Certificate IV in Training and Assessment is offered at TAFE Colleges and other registered training organisations throughout Australia.
   
A Bachelor Degree or higher or a Postgraduate Diploma in adult education is usually required. Sometimes relevant industry and vocational education experience, or on-the-job training is also needed. Registration or licensing may be required.

To work as a VET lecturer in Australia, you usually need to hold a current Working With Children Check and undergo a National Police History Check conducted by the Department of Education Screening Unit.

School principals oversee the planning, organisation, direction and coordination of the day-to-day educational and administrative aspects of a school. They are often responsible for hiring new staff, including teachers and support staff, as well as setting the educational program, based on the curriculum set out by the Australian government and each State or Territory government.

They also set up systems to monitor and improve school and student performance. These workers prepare and manage school budgets, and may also oversee additional fundraising activities, often in conjunction with parent groups. In some schools, the principal may also be responsible for the clerical and administrative duties involved with student enrolments and have some teaching duties.


ANZSCO ID & description: 134311: Plans, organises, directs, controls and coordinates the educational and administrative aspects of primary, middle or intermediate and secondary schools including physical and human resources. Registration or licensing is required.

Alternative names: Head teacher, Headmaster, Head Mistress,

Specialisations: Primary School Principal, Secondary School Principal

Knowledge, skills and attributes

A principal needs:

leadership and motivational ability

good organisational skills

to enjoy working with young people

good communication and interpersonal skills

the ability to work as part of a team

 

School Principal, Chris Presland, retired Principal of St Clair High School

 

Working conditions

Principals work in all Australian schools, including public, catholic and independent schools. They usually work regular teaching hours, but are expected to work additional hours to attend staff meetings and undertake administrative tasks and, in some cases, prepare for classes. They may also be required to work additional hours to take students on excursions or camps, or to attend assemblies, graduations or other school functions. They frequently have a high level of contact with the public, often acting as the school's representative in the community and sometimes meeting with prospective students and their parents.

Tools and technologies

Principals use computers and other general office equipment to carry out general administrative duties. Those with additional teaching duties will need to use textbooks and other subject specific learning aides. Some principals may use microphones and other audio equipment to make announcements to the school, either at school assemblies or over a school PA system.

Education and Training

To become a school principal you need to complete a degree in primary or secondary education. Alternatively, you can study a degree in any area followed by the completion of a postgraduate qualification specialising in primary or secondary education.

Most school principals will generally have significant experience in teaching before progressing to a school principal role. You may also be required to complete further postgraduate studies in education.

 

 

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Materials sourced from
Jobs & Skills WA [Art Teacher; School Principal; Secondary School Teacher; Primary School Teacher; Early Childhood Teacher; Special Needs Teacher; Teacher's Aide; Music Teacher; VET Lecturer; Teachers of Hearing Impaired; Art Teacher; ];
CareersOnline [Art Teacher; Secondary Teacher; ]
CareerHQ [Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Education Worker; ]
Courses [Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Education Worker; ]
Ethical Jobs [Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Officer; ]
Your Career [Education Aide; Teacher's Aide; Integration Aide; Teacher of English to Speakers of other Language; Art Teacher (Private Tuition); Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Education Worker; ]

 

 

 

 

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