Primary school teacher
What does a primary school teacher do?
Creating lesson plans, assessing student performance, ensuring children behave in the classroom, supporting students emotionally, and providing updates to parents… the job of a primary school teacher is incredibly diverse. So, why is teaching a good career choice? Well, a primary teaching can be very rewarding; in this profession you can make a meaningful and lasting impact on young minds. You would not only educate students in literacy and numeracy but also help them develop their social and emotional skills. In Australia, a primary school is usually for students aged five to 12.
Is a career as a primary school teacher right for me?
Primary teaching is often suited to people who have an interest in education and enjoy working with children.
Other skills and attributes beneficial for this role include:
An ability to manage change positively and perform effectively in changing environments.
Clear written and verbal communication skills, supported by strong interpersonal skills.
Creative expression, storytelling and original thinking.
The ability to build positive relationships and support others effectively.
Effective time-management and prioritisation skills.
Problem-solving and decision-making
The ability to identify issues, evaluate options, and make informed decisions.
How to become a primary school teacher?
To become a primary school teacher in Australia, you usually need a Bachelor of Education with a specialisation in primary education. However, every educational journey is unique, and there are various paths to achieve your teaching career goals. If you have previously completed a bachelor degree in another area, you can also become a primary school teacher by studying a Master of Learning and Teaching (Primary) degree.
After graduating, you'll need to complete accreditation, obtain a working with children check, undergo a national police check and hold a current first aid certificate.
Below is one path you could take to become a primary school teacher:
- Complete a Bachelor of Education (Primary) or a Master of Learning and Teaching (Primary).
- Complete supervised professional experience in primary school classrooms as part of your studies.
- Meet the Literacy and Numeracy Test for Initial Teacher Education (LANTITE) requirements.
- Apply for teacher registration with the relevant state or territory teaching authority.
- Obtain a valid Working with Children Check and meet any other requirements that apply in your state or territory.
Accreditation and qualifications
To work as a primary school teacher in Australia, you must meet the teacher registration requirements of the relevant state or territory regulatory authority. In Queensland, this involves registration with the Queensland College of Teachers (QCT).
Our primary teaching degrees are accredited by the Queensland College of Teachers (QCT) and meets the standards and requirements of the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL) for Initial Teacher Education (ITE) programs. Graduates are eligible to apply for teacher registration in Queensland.
How long does it take to become a primary school teacher in Australia?
To become a primary school teacher in Australia you typically need to complete an undergraduate degree in teaching with a major in primary education. This generally takes four years of full-time study, although the duration may vary based on your chosen study load and university.Start your journey with UniSQ
Develop the knowledge, communication and classroom management skills needed for a career in primary education with a UniSQ teaching degree. Gain practical experience supporting children's learning, development and wellbeing.
Responsibilities and work settings
Planning and preparing classroom lessons, activities and excursions for primary school students.
Teaching literacy, numeracy, social science, creative expression and health.
Participating in staff meetings, educational conferences and workshops.
Discussing individual progress and issues with students and parents.
Consulting student counsellors and senior teachers for advice.
Leading discussions and overseeing classwork.
Preparing and grading tests, projects, homework and assignments.
Managing student behaviour in the classroom.
Contributing to extracurricular activities such as sports, school concerts, excursions and special interest programs.
Primary and secondary schools
Government agencies, departments and councils
Universities and higher education providers
Non-profit, charity and community organisations
Early learning and childcare providers
Community health organisations
Sport and recreation organisations
Primary school teacher FAQs
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