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Starting
a teaching career is exciting and maybe a little daunting. Between lesson
planning, classroom management and finding the right school, there are some
things you only discover once you step into the classroom.
Hayley and Julie graduated from Griffith University in mid-2020 and, now a few years into their teaching careers, reflect on their early experiences and the advice they wish they'd received as beginning teachers.
#1 Find the right school to support your growth
While schools invest significant effort in finding teachers who are the right fit for their team and school, Hayley and Julie stress that it's equally important for graduates to ensure the school aligns with their needs and values.
Julie's advice when applying for your first teaching role? Ask questions, no matter how many you have.
'Ask about mentoring programs, graduate support and professional development opportunities. These questions can help you determine whether the school can provide the environment you need to thrive in your first year,' Julie explained.
Hayley encourages graduates to prioritise finding a mentor at their new school.
'A mentor can guide you through the challenges of your first year, help you set realistic goals and clarify what's expected of you. Having someone who genuinely understands your journey can make all the difference,' Hayley said.
#2 Build relationships first
Teaching the curriculum and helping students achieve their learning goals may be the cornerstone of teaching, but Hayley and Julie agree that establishing strong relationships with students is the foundation of effective teaching.
'Teaching curriculum is much easier once you've built relationships with your students and they have a clear understanding of your expectations.' Hayley says.
Julie emphasises that relationships extend beyond the classroom too. The friendships and professional connections formed during study and placements often become an invaluable source of support in the early years of teaching.
'Hayley and I completed our Masters degrees together and staying in touch after graduation has been incredible. Having a personal support network to lean on for advice and guidance in the classroom has been invaluable,' Julie shares.
#3 Support is closer than you think
While Hayley and Julie's advice highlights the importance of finding the right school environment and building meaningful relationships, early-career teachers in Queensland state schools are not navigating this journey alone. Beyond their own classrooms, there are professional programs designed to offer guidance, connection and reassurance during those important first years of teaching.
One key source of support is the Education Futures Institute (EFI), part of the Queensland Department of Education. EFI provides targeted professional learning and support at different career stages. For beginning teachers in Queensland state schools, two flagship programs stand out to help kickstart careers:
- Starting Successfully: This program empowers early-career teachers with tailored professional learning, mentoring, in-school induction and more. It is designed to help teachers build confidence and expertise.
- Remote Ready: For those starting their careers in rural or remote areas communities, this program offers practical guidance, professional development and location specific support to help teachers succeed.
Ready for more?
If you found this advice helpful, be sure to check out our other articles for more tips and guidance for new teachers:
Beginning teacher incentives and support