News: Proposed Education Reforms Spark Unrest

The conversation around entry standards for teaching degrees in Australia is back in the spotlight, with ongoing national debate over how best to raise teacher quality while maintaining accessible pathways into the profession.

Recent and proposed changes—such as stricter minimum entry scores, literacy and numeracy tests, and practical placement requirements—have sparked concern among educators and universities alike. The key tension? Balancing higher standards with the need to attract and retain a diverse, capable teaching workforce.

Why Teaching Entry Reforms Are Back on the Agenda

The original proposal by the NSW Government to require aspiring teachers to achieve Band 5 (80%+) in at least three HSC subjects, including English, was part of a broader push to improve teaching quality and lift the status of the profession. Since then, national reforms have built on this idea through frameworks like the Teacher Education Quality Initiative and minimum entry thresholds across Australian Initial Teacher Education (ITE) programs.

As of 2025, students applying for undergraduate teaching degrees are expected to meet at least one of the following:

• An ATAR of 70 or above (or 80 for double degrees),
• Satisfactory completion of an approved bridging program, or
• Proven equivalent aptitude based on non-school qualifications or work experience.

These measures are part of national guidelines introduced by the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL), aiming to ensure that teaching candidates demonstrate strong academic foundations while still allowing flexibility and inclusivity.

Concerns from Universities and Educators

Some university leaders argue that rigid entry benchmarks risk limiting access to the profession—especially for candidates from regional areas or non-traditional pathways. They contend that academic scores alone do not fully predict classroom effectiveness.

“A candidate’s communication skills, commitment to learning, and cultural understanding are equally important,” said one academic representative. Others highlight that teacher shortages, especially in rural and STEM fields, could worsen if admissions become too exclusive.

Why Standards Still Matter

At the heart of the reforms is a genuine effort to uplift the profession. Quality teachers play a pivotal role in shaping student outcomes, and setting high standards for entry helps reinforce the value and impact of the role. It also aligns with international best practices, where countries with high-performing education systems invest heavily in teacher preparation and selection.

Thinking About Becoming a Teacher?

If you’re considering a career in teaching but are unsure if you’ll meet new entry requirements, don’t worry—there are multiple pathways into the profession.

You can:

• Start with a general undergraduate degree and then complete a Master of Teaching
• Undertake a recognised undergraduate education course with bridging or foundation units
• Use work experience, a VET qualification or a mature-age entry scheme to meet academic thresholds

Additionally, passing the Literacy and Numeracy Test for Initial Teacher Education Students (LANTITE) is now a requirement before graduation for most programs in Australia. It’s designed to ensure teachers have essential skills—not to block passionate, capable educators from entering the field.

Support and Resources

Considering teaching but unsure where to start? Check out these helpful resources:

• How to become a teacher in Australia
• Education and Teaching courses
• Teach NSW – scholarships, placement programs and rural incentives

Your Career, Your Impact

Despite the policy changes and debate, one thing remains true: teaching is one of the most rewarding careers you can pursue. As Australia faces both growing student populations and regional workforce shortages, there’s never been a more meaningful time to become an educator.

Whether you’re a recent graduate, a mid-career switcher or a lifelong learner, the pathway into teaching is open—and the need for passionate, well-trained educators has never been greater.