Department of Teaching NSW

Department of Teaching NSW Graduate

• Name: Chris Williams
• Position: Science Teacher
• Degree: Bachelor of Science in Nanotechnology and Graduate Diploma in Education

The thought provoking experiences you can provide children. Science is a hands-on subject so it breaks up the chalk and talk of the classroom. I find when my students are active in class they learn more effectively and appreciate the lessons more. That’s rewarding. more

Turn your qualifications in science or technology into a profession where you can really make a difference, as a teacher in NSW public schools. You’ll receive a higher than average commencing salary with many opportunities for professional growth and lifestyle enhancement.

Salaries and benefits
In 2008, four-year trained teachers earned between $50,522 and $75,352. An attractive range of salaries for promotion positions reflects additional levels of responsibility.
Employment benefits include an employer funded superannuation scheme and flexible working conditions such as permanent part-time work. Through the Deferred Salary Scheme teachers can put aside part of their salary to fund a year off. Incentives are also offered to teachers in many remote rural locations and may include: locality allowances valued at up to $7000 per year, vacation travel expense allowance, a generous rental subsidy, one week additional summer vacation, and eligibility to apply for a transfer to a preferred location after completing an agreed service period.

Beginning teachers are welcomed and supported throughout their first years. Later, there are retraining opportunities to help teachers gain further qualifications and experience, as well as teacher exchange programs to other NSW schools, interstate or to other countries.

Degree disciplines

Graduates in areas such as mathematics, science and technology may qualify as teachers by undertaking as little as 12 months additional study. Currently, demand is high for teachers in the secondary areas of mathematics, science (particularly physics), technology (particularly food technology with hospitality), and English (especially with drama), and also in the specialist areas of school counselling and special education.

Training

Training to become a teacher usually involves four or five years of study at university, such as a four-year Bachelor of Education or a three-year Bachelor degree plus postgraduate teacher education training such as a one year Diploma of Education or two year Master of Teaching.

Scholarships

Teacher education scholarships are offered annually to selected candidates wanting to teach secondary science, mathematics, English or technology. Scholarships include financial assistance and a guaranteed permanent teaching position upon graduation.