EAL/D teachers provide targeted English language instruction to help students develop their literacy and English language skills. They support students in a number of subject areas across the curriculum. They also support teachers in developing learning programs and teaching practices suited to EAL/D students.

EAL/D teachers are qualified primary or secondary teachers who have completed approved TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) studies.

Attributes of great EAL/D teachers

EAL/D teachers are passionate about developing the literacy skills of culturally and linguistically diverse students. They are able to assess students' education history and English language proficiency, and design individualised lessons focusing on listening, speaking, reading and writing English. They are also able to work collaboratively with other teachers to support them in developing learning programs and teaching practices for EAL/D students.

How to decide if you should become an EAL/D teacher

If you have a desire to raise English language proficiency, are willing to understand and accept students' cultural differences, and patiently teach students of differing abilities and backgrounds, consider becoming an EAL/D teacher in NSW public schools. If you have solid knowledge of English language structure and can communicate effectively with people from diverse cultures, you could become a great EAL/D teacher.

How to become an EAL/D teacher

To become an EAL/D teacher in NSW public schools, you will need to complete approved courses in primary or secondary teaching and Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL).

The become a teacher page outlines the steps you will need to take to become a teacher in a NSW public school. TESOL studies may be undertaken through undergraduate study or as a combination of undergraduate and postgraduate study.

Sponsored training for teachers

NSW public school teachers who have been recommended for an EAL/D position following merit selection or permanently appointed to an EAL/D teaching position, and are currently undertaking an approved postgraduate qualification in TESOL, may be eligible to apply for the department's Teach and Learn Scholarship (Specialist Teaching Areas).