For Ainsley, a teacher at Charleville School of Distance Education, her journey to rural Queensland began eight years ago on the Gold Coast.
At the time, relocating with a young family felt like a big step into the unknown.
'We had young kids and it was quite daunting,' Ainsley says.
'There were lots of questions about what life would look like—childcare, how we would make the move and whether it would work for our family.'
With careful research and the support of the department, those uncertainties soon began to ease.
'With a bit of planning and the support available, we realised the move wasn't just possible—it was the right decision for us.'
One of the key considerations for the family was access to childcare and local services.
'The biggest thing for us was making sure there was daycare and support in the community we were moving to,' she explains.
'Once we had that clarity, everything felt much more manageable.'
The logistics of relocating—often one of the most stressful parts of moving—were made significantly easier with support from the department.
'The relocation and HR teams were fantastic,' Ainsley says. 'They organised packing up our entire home—furniture, equipment, everything. It made such a difference not having to worry about those details.'
She also highlights how straightforward the financial side of the move was.
'The reimbursement process was really easy too. It meant we could focus on settling in rather than stressing about costs.'
While the practical support made the move possible, it was the community in Charleville that truly made it meaningful.
'What we didn't expect was just how welcoming everyone would be,' she says.
'We didn't have family nearby, but it didn't take long to feel like we weren't alone.'
Over time, those community connections grew into something deeper.
'We've made so many friends and connections since moving out here. We've found 'stand-in' grandparents and aunties, too,' Ainsley says.
'There are so many people willing to step in and support you—it really does feel like a second family.'
Professionally and personally, the move has been transformative.
'Teaching in a rural setting has been incredibly rewarding,' she says. 'Not just in my career, but in the life we've built here.'
'Working at the Charleville School of Distance Education has also meant I'm constantly growing as a teacher, because I'm working in a really dynamic and innovative environment.'
'I've been able to develop my skills in curriculum delivery, digital learning and personalised instruction.'
'Working with smaller cohorts and having more individual interactions with students means I can build deeper connections with them and their families.'
Looking back, the decision that once felt daunting has become one the family values deeply.
'It's turned into one of the best decisions we've ever made - not just in my career, but in the life we've built here that's rich in connection, support and community,' Ainsley says.
If you're interested in teaching in a rural or remote state school, apply now or ask a recruiter.