Students to promote teaching Queensland Style

Students in rural and remote areas will be encouraged to market their communities as great places to live and teach by taking part in a Teach Queensland Style photo competition.

“With more than half of our state schools located in regional, rural and remote locations, we have an ongoing need to recruit state school teachers to these areas,” Education Minister Grace Grace said.

“Having the students involved in the campaign is a great initiative. Who better to say and show what they like about living in a country area,’’ she said.

Ms Grace said the Teach Queensland Style campaign had encouraged beginning and experienced teachers to explore outback Queensland, build new friendships and strengthen their career prospects as teachers.

“Nearly 2000 teachers arrived in regional, rural and remote communities to begin or advance their teaching careers this year in Queensland state schools.

“Initiatives like the Teach Queensland Style campaign have really helped us to attract teachers to apply for positions in regional, rural and remote state schools.

“This includes newly-qualified teachers as well as experienced teachers from other parts of the state, interstate and overseas.

Teachers in the regional, rural and remote area span all subject areas including science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), primary, secondary and special needs, along with foreign language teachers, physical education and the arts.

“Students and families living outside major metropolitan areas will certainly benefit from the skills and expertise these teachers bring to their new schools and I know they will be warmly welcomed into their new communities.”

Minister Grace said the Palaszczuk Government offered generous financial incentives and benefits for teachers in rural and remote locations.

“Depending on the location, benefits include subsidised housing, flight allowances, relocation expenses and additional leave entitlements,” Ms Grace said.

“There are also specialised induction programs and greater opportunities for teachers to secure permanent employment or to step up into school leadership positions.

“However, it is the unique experience of teaching Queensland Style that is a significant drawcard.”

Minister Grace said the Teach Queensland Style campaign featured short promotional videos showcasing rural and remote Queensland in all of its glory.

“For teachers who have not had the opportunity to visit these areas, these videos offer a glimpse into the unique experience of teaching in a regional, rural or remote state school,” she said.

“Teaching is an outstanding profession which helps shape our society and contributes to the growth and prosperity of our state.  Teaching offers flexible working conditions and wonderful career and life opportunities.

“With a growing school population and an increased demand for teachers into the future, there has never been a better time to teach.”

Details of the Teach Queensland Style photo competition will be available later in the year.

For more information, visit www.teach.qld.gov.au, subscribe to Teach Queensland News and Jobs and follow @TeachQLD on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Media enquiries: David Potter 0428 411 617