What does a secondary school teacher do?
As a secondary school teacher (also known as a high school teacher) you will teach subjects in your chosen area of interest and expertise. For example, you may specialise in teaching English, maths, drama, music, science, history, and/or physical education.
So what is secondary school and what exactly is involved in secondary teaching? As a secondary teacher your classrooms could be filled with students aged between 12 and 18; in Australia, this includes grades seven to 12. You will develop lesson plans, set exams and assignments, mark assessment, complete student report cards, conduct parent-teacher interviews, plus facilitate any extracurricular activities.
Is a career as a secondary school teacher right for me?
If you’re passionate about education and have good communication skills, you might enjoy working as a high school teacher. Other skills and attributes beneficial for this role include:
- excellent organisational skills
- an interest in working with teenagers
- patience
- empathy
- resilience
- good behaviour management skills.
How to become a secondary school teacher
To become a high school teacher, you will need a teaching qualification, such as a Bachelor of Education (Secondary) or a relevant undergraduate degree followed by a postgraduate teaching qualification. In addition to your degree, registration with the relevant state or territory teaching board and a valid Working with Children Check are essential. Depending on your location, you may also need to complete a national police check, obtain a first aid certificate, and receive training in anaphylaxis and asthma management.
A secondary teacher career path involves a combination of university study, practical teaching experience, and a dedication to making a difference in students’ lives. It is highly rewarding for those passionate about education and inspiring young minds.
At UniSQ, we offer the following degrees in the area of secondary education:
Average salary per week
$1636
Future demand
Strong
Industries
Related careers
Source: yourcareer.gov.au
© Commonwealth of Australia
Last updated May 2024.
Degree
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Campus
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Secondary school teacher FAQs
What qualifications are needed to become a high school teacher?
To become a high school teacher, you typically need to have a teaching qualification, such as a Bachelor of Education (Secondary). Alternatively, if you have studied a relevant undergraduate degree, you may be able to go straight into a postgraduate teaching degree, such as a Master of Learning and Teaching (Secondary). Registration with the appropriate state or territory teaching board as well as a valid children check is required. You may also be required to show a national police check, first aid certificate or training in anaphylaxis and/or asthma management.
Is it hard to become a high school teacher in Australia?
Becoming a high school teacher in Australia takes approximately 2-4 years of full-time study, including professional experience. The journey involves completing a teaching degree and gaining classroom experience throughout your studies. For those passionate about education, it can be a rewarding career.
UniSQ offers comprehensive support for aspiring high school teachers, providing practical training, mentorship, and resources to prepare graduates for the demands of the classroom. We also offer financial support and scholarships to support you throughout your professional experience.
Can a high school teacher teach primary school students?
In Australia, the ability for a high school teacher to teach primary school students varies by state and territory. For instance, in Queensland, a registered teacher is qualified to teach any year level in a school. For more details, please refer to the specific qualifications required in the state or territory where you wish to teach.
What is the average high school teacher salary in Australia?
The secondary school teacher salary in Australia varies based on factors such as experience, location, and school type. Please see the salary information on this page for further details.
What is the demand like for high school teachers?
The demand for high school teachers in Australia is very strong, particularly in subjects such as maths, science, and special education. Many regions face shortages, providing opportunities for qualified teachers across both metropolitan and regional areas. Schools are continually seeking passionate educators to help bridge these gaps, and those with specialised skills or experience in particular subjects may find high demand for their expertise.
What are the duties and responsibilities of a high school teacher?
The main responsibilities of a high school teacher typically include:
- preparing and delivering lessons aligned with the curriculum
- setting and marking homework, assessments, and providing feedback
- managing classroom behaviour and supporting student welfare
- engaging students in discussions and activities
- communicating progress with parents and carers
- participating in staff meetings, professional development, and school activities.
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