High school students

Are you a senior student considering a career in teaching? Find out how teaching can open doors for you.

Are you thinking about your career options post-high school?

Have you considered a career in teaching?

Teaching is a career like no other. As a teacher, you will be able to work anywhere in the state, country or world. Completing your practicum placements during university, you will discover that no two days are the same, and working for the largest employer of teachers in Australia, you’ll find a countless number of career development opportunities available to you.

The department offers an inclusive workplace where all employees are welcome and valued. Our schools reflect Australian communities with students and staff representing a diverse range of cultural, linguistic and religious backgrounds.

As a beginning teacher, you will benefit from a competitive graduate salary while receiving mentoring and support from experienced teachers in your school.

Read on to find out more about subject requirements, university admission guidelines and scholarship programs available for future teachers.

Your how to guide

Ready to get started? Follow the steps below to kick-start your teaching journey.

Step 1: Get ready to study

Decide what type of teacher you would like to become.

Tip: Becoming a qualified teacher in a high-demand subject area can increase your chances of gaining employment in NSW public schools.

Step 2: Apply for an accredited teaching course and complete your HSC

Apply for admission to the university course you've decided to study through the University Admissions Centre.

Aim to achieve three Band 5s (including one in English) and a Band 4 in mathematics to ensure you meet admission requirements.

There may be additional subject prerequisites depending on the university you complete your initial teacher education degree within.

Visit the NESA website for more information on prerequisites and alternate entry pathways.

Step 3: Complete your teaching degree

Make the most of your studies by applying for a scholarship, completing a rural practicum or teaching casually in the final year of your degree.

Step 4: Start teaching

In the final year of your studies, you will be required to apply for approval to teach in NSW public schools and gain accreditation with the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA).

Following this, you can apply for advertised teaching positions in NSW public schools, or be appointed to a permanent teaching position if you are a scholarship recipient.

Find an accredited course

As a prerequisite for teaching in a NSW public school you will need to complete a minimum of four years study, including an accredited teacher education course at a recognised Australian teacher education institution.

Teacher education courses vary and are structured and delivered in different ways. The course(s) you choose will depend on the type of teacher you wish to become, the course entry requirements and the delivery mode offered, such as full-time, part-time, on-campus or distance education. Your careers advisor will be able to assist in finding the right course for you.

Explore high-demand subject areas

Not sure what type of teacher you would like to become? Why not consider a high-demand subject area. These subject areas are in high demand across NSW, Australia and the world and offer increased employment and potential scholarship opportunities.

Find out more

Apply for a future teacher scholarship

NSW Department of Education future teacher scholarships offer a range of benefits including financial incentives and a guaranteed permanent teaching position upon graduation.

Scholarship programs for high school students include: