Australians celebrate World Teachers' Day on Friday 30 October, shining a light on the teachers who inspire, support and empower young people every day.
Under this year's theme, Shine a light on Australia's teachers, Teach For Australia (TFA) is celebrating the educators making a difference in classrooms and communities across the country, recognising the powerful role teachers play in opening doors and creating opportunities for their students.
Since 2010, TFA has recruited engineers, scientists, accountants, lawyers, and researchers to become teachers in schools that need them the most. World Teachers' Day is an opportunity to recognise the people choosing to teach in schools experiencing educational disadvantage, and the importance of attracting, developing and supporting talented teachers in the communities that need them most.
We know that quality teachers and school leaders make the biggest difference for students. Through its Leadership Development Program, TFA has placed almost 2000 high-calibre individuals in classrooms across Australia, supporting schools to develop teachers committed to advancing educational equity. TFA rigorously recruits exceptional people with the potential to lead and develops them into high-quality, equity-driven teachers who improve student outcomes.
Teach For Australia CEO Edwina Dohle said World Teachers' Day was a time to reflect on the profound difference teachers make across schools and communities.
"Every one of us can remember a teacher who made a difference in our lives. Someone who encouraged us, helped us see what we were capable of, or opened our eyes to a possibility we hadn't considered before.
"Great teaching is about so much more than what happens at the front of a classroom. It's about building relationships, inspiring curiosity, creating a sense of belonging and helping young people see a future full of possibility."
"At Teach For Australia, we attract talented people who wouldn't ordinarily become teachers and develop them into exceptional educators. They bring valuable expertise. Half are qualified to teach STEM subjects, and 86% have prior professional or industry experience."
"We place every participant in a low-socioeconomic, regional or remote school, where excellent teachers are needed the most. After completing two-years teaching through our program, 74% continue teaching for at least another five years. "
"Celebrating teachers also means investing in them. We need to create more pathways into the profession, support teachers to develop their practice and leadership, and become the best teachers they possibly can be."
"I encourage you to take a moment to thank the teachers in your lives for the important work that they do every day."
Teach For Australia are able to connect you with Teachers in your local area.
