Primary School Teacher

Roles and responsibilities

To qualify as a primary school teacher:

Step 1
Complete any undergraduate bachelor’s course {Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Commerce, Bachelor of Design, Bachelor of Science or the Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours)} as your first degree.

Step 2
Complete the postgraduate Master of Teaching - Coursework (Primary) to qualify as a primary school teacher.

Refer to the Study Pathways to the right for more information.

Primary school teachers:

• prepare daily and longer-term lesson plans in accordance with curriculum guidelines
• teach a full range of learning areas including English (reading, writing, speaking and listening), mathematics, science, technology, society and environment, creative arts, personal development, health and physical education
• develop children's interests, abilities and coordination using creative activities such as art, music and sport
• use computers and digital technology to assist in lesson preparation, teaching and reporting
• develop and maintain good working habits and discipline in classrooms
• carry out administrative duties
• supervise students during classes and at other times in the school day, including in the playground during breaks
• attend staff meetings and other training and development sessions
• take part in joint decision-making about educational issues
• assess and evaluate student progress in written and oral work
• discuss student progress and concerns with parents and administrators
• assist and organise sporting activities, school concerts and excursions
• prepare for and attend parent/teacher interviews and other functions

You may find competition for positions as a primary school teacher in metropolitan government and private schools to be very strong. You should be prepared to move to areas of need (such as rural areas) to secure a job or obtain promotion to senior positions. Once employed, the prospects for advancement can be enhanced by obtaining higher qualifications.

Source: myFuture