Teach. Lead. Inspire: How to Become A Teacher

Most of us can recall a teacher who made a lasting impact—someone who made learning feel exciting, meaningful or even life-changing. Whether it was an English teacher who sparked a love of literature, or a maths teacher who made the numbers finally click, great educators leave a powerful legacy.

Teaching remains one of the most rewarding and impactful career choices. And with Australia experiencing ongoing teacher shortages—especially in regional and specialist areas—there’s never been a better time to step into the classroom or expand your role in the education sector.

Whether you’re just starting out, changing careers or upskilling, here’s a guide to the different teaching pathways and how you can make a difference through education.

Primary Education

Primary school teachers play a unique and dynamic role. They’re not just educators—they’re mentors, nurturers and community leaders. With a broad curriculum spanning literacy, numeracy, science, the arts and more, primary educators need strong communication skills, creativity and patience to meet the diverse needs of their students.

In rural and remote areas, job opportunities are especially strong. Government incentives are often available to encourage teachers to work in under-resourced communities. You’ll need a recognised teaching qualification—typically a Bachelor of Education (Primary) or a graduate entry degree, plus a Working With Children Check in your state or territory.

Real Voices: Why Teach?

“I’ve always thought that education is one of the most important foundations of society,” says Amy Bywater, a primary school teacher. “It’s so rewarding to see the progress kids make in their early years—it reminds you every day that what you’re doing matters.”

Secondary Education

High school teachers shape the minds of tomorrow’s adults. From maths and science to languages, art and technology, they foster subject expertise and critical thinking in their students.

Teaching at the secondary level allows for more focused subject specialisation and more variety in teaching styles. If you’re passionate about a subject area, teaching can be a fulfilling way to share that passion. However, the role also involves planning, marking, mentoring, and staying up to date with educational trends and curriculum changes.

There’s a current national shortage of qualified teachers in science, maths and technology—particularly in regional and outer suburban schools. To become a high school teacher, you’ll need a Bachelor of Education (Secondary) or a relevant degree followed by a postgraduate teaching qualification.

Teaching Tip

“Seeing that lightbulb moment—the spark of understanding in a student’s eyes—is what keeps me going,” says Ben Kozel, a maths and science teacher. “The first year is tough, but the rewards far outweigh the challenges.”

Tertiary Education

Lecturers and tutors in higher education play a vital role in shaping specialised knowledge and research across universities and TAFEs. You’ll need strong communication skills and the ability to engage adult learners from a range of backgrounds.

Tertiary educators often split their time between teaching and conducting research, presenting at conferences, or publishing academic papers. To teach at university level, a master’s or PhD is usually required. For Vocational Education and Training (VET) providers like TAFEs, you’ll generally need a qualification like the Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, plus relevant industry experience.

Employment opportunities in this sector can depend on funding and student demand, but education in areas such as health, IT and business continues to grow in Australia.

Teaching English as a Second Language (TESOL/ESL)

With global demand for English language teachers, a TESOL qualification opens up doors both in Australia and overseas. ESL teachers support students from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds—whether in schools, adult learning centres, universities or migration programs.

In Australia, you’ll often need a teaching degree plus TESOL certification to work in government or school-based ESL programs. To teach English abroad, you may only need a TESOL or TEFL certificate, depending on the country’s requirements.

Teachers like Jayde Walker have used their qualifications to explore the world. “Teaching English overseas gave me the chance to immerse myself in another culture while doing meaningful work,” she says. “It provided income, housing, and a purpose.”

Study Teaching Online or by Distance

Can’t make it to a campus? Online and distance learning options make it easier than ever to gain your teaching qualification from anywhere in Australia. Many universities and private providers now offer flexible, accredited online degrees designed for busy students.

Online study combines digital tutorials, recorded lectures and forums to keep you connected with tutors and peers. It’s especially valuable for students balancing work or family commitments.

“Studying online gave me the freedom to learn at my own pace,” says Bronwen Westley, a Bachelor of Education (Primary) student. “Even though I wasn’t on campus, I built a great support network with other students.”

Why Now Is the Time to Teach

With Australia facing ongoing teacher shortages and rising enrolments across primary, secondary and VET sectors, qualified teachers are in high demand. Teaching offers career stability, meaningful impact, and the flexibility to work locally or globally.

It’s more than just a job—it’s a way to shape futures and inspire lifelong learning. If you’re passionate about helping others grow, now is the time to explore a future in education.

Explore teaching qualifications on Career FAQs:

• Browse all teaching and education courses
• Certificate IV in Training & Assessment
• How to become a high school teacher in Australia