Rural and remote teaching positions throughout Queensland are currently abundant. For people seeking a life experience, expedited career progression or just a new and fresh challenge to their career, the time to take that step is now.
Innisfail lad Nick Farnsworth thought all his Christmases had come at once when he moved to Brisbane to study teaching until he made another big move that changed his life forever.
Whilst on prac, a conversation with his colleagues about rural and remote placements planted a new seed of possibility in his mind and, heeding the advice, Nick and a few student friends attended the Teach Rural Career Fair.
Enlightened by the process, benefits and opportunities that a rural and remote posting can offer, he was all in.
'The positives of going outweighed the fears.' he said.
Having successfully made the move to Mt Isa, Nick now shares why teaching in a rural and remote school has been the best move of his life.
Reason 1: extraordinary career opportunities—'I've gained so much experience'
Rural and remote teaching positions are often accompanied by a wide range of professional growth and progression opportunities outside the classroom. There are professional learning opportunities through the Centres for Learning and Wellbeing, Teacher Learning Centres and Take the Lead programs alongside a higher likelihood of gaining permanency.
For Nick, his in-school opportunities were extensive, being entrusted with higher responsibilities and leadership duties with exceptional support and trust from his peers.
'I had an excellent experience in terms of career opportunities' he said. 'I was appointed subject coordinator, year group coordinator, led extracurricular activities and trips.'
'There was a lot of positivity and professional development to help and support me. With loads of observations and ongoing learning opportunities.'
Reason 2: broadened horizons—'My life is richer'
Shifting away from metropolitan life brings about exposure to a vast array of social, cultural and community experiences that many people may never ordinarily have. Some of the world’s best tourist spots, events and communities are located away from the city, with rodeo’s, camel races, musters and camping being a regular feature on the calendar for rural and remote teachers.
As Nick discovered, his social life thrived.
'Being from a small town originally (Innisfail), I had that experience growing up so I was a bit more passionate about going to help out a smaller community.'
'I immediately got involved through coaching sport and being on committees' he said. 'I've met my partner out here, it's such a great place for young people.'
Reason 3: personal growth—'I'm a better human'
What's without a doubt the most impressive take away from Nick's rural and remote journey is the maturity and perspective he’s gained from the experience.
'You hear some negative things about how hard it is to go. (Myths) about the lack of resources; the students and the whole idea of moving away from support networks being too hard,' he said.
'I was scared my first week... but (persevering) has made me such a better teacher. It challenged me to rise to the occasion.'
'Every practice student I have had I recommend to take the plunge... you just won't gain that perspective anywhere else. It's the best move they could ever make.'
Learn more about the
benefits of teaching in a rural and remote community.