About the Rural Professional Experience Program
The Rural Professional Experience Program supports penultimate and final-year Bachelor of Education and Master of Teaching students to complete a placement in a regional, rural or remote NSW public school.
Rural locations offer unique lifestyle and teaching opportunities, making them an excellent choice when deciding where to build your teaching career.
Students participating in this program will be able to experience the benefits of a teaching career in a rural NSW public school alongside another pre-service teacher from their university.
Program details
Financial support
- Up to $500 one-off travel allowance
- $250 per week living allowance
- Accommodation paid for by the NSW Department of Education
Gain valuable experience
- Practical classroom teaching experience in a regional, rural or remote NSW public school, including exposure to unique community and student needs
- Opportunity to live and work in a rural community
- Potential to build professional networks that can support future employment decisions
Eligibility
- Third or final-year Bachelor of Education or Master of Teaching students undertaking a professional experience placement at a recognised and participating NSW university
- Demonstrated passion for, and commitment to, the values of public education
Placement locations
- Allocated based on participant's university
- Subject to change influenced by the timing and duration of the professional experience placement
Select your university below to apply
Submit an expression of interest with Australian Catholic University.
Applications close Monday 9 March 2026, 11:59 pm (AEDT).
Submit an expression of interest with Charles Sturt University.
Applications close Monday 9 March 2026, 11:59 pm (AEDT).
Submit an expression of interest with Macquarie University.
Applications close Monday 9 March 2026, 11:59 pm (AEDT).
Applications opening soon. Register to be notified.
Submit an expression of interest with the University of New England.
Applications close Friday 3 April 2026, 11:59 pm (AEDT).
Submit an expression of interest with the University of New South Wales
Applications close Monday 9 March 2026, 11:59 pm (AEDT).
Applications opening soon. Register to be notified.
Submit an expression of interest with the University of Sydney.
Applications close Monday 9 March 2026, 11:59 pm (AEDT).
Submit an expression of interest with the University of Technology Sydney
Applications close Monday 9 March 2026, 11:59 pm (AEDT).
Applications opening soon. Register to be notified.
Submit an expression of interest with Western Sydney University.
Applications close Monday 9 March 2026, 11:59 pm (AEDT).
If you are studying at another accredited NSW university, submit an expression of interest.
Applications close Monday 9 March 2026, 11:59 pm (AEDT).
More information
Review the frequently asked questions and eligibility for more information on the Rural Professional Experience Program.
Alternatively, contact the Rural Professional Experience Program team via ruralpex@det.nsw.edu.au.
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