New beginnings: Overseas educators settle into WA schools

Sixty teachers from overseas are now calling Western Australia home, bringing their expertise, passion and fresh perspectives to schools across the state.

Six different countries were represented in the new teachers welcomed by the Department this year in time for Term 1.

The newcomers were welcomed from diverse backgrounds, with 46 arriving from the United Kingdom, six from New Zealand, four from South Africa, two from Canada, and one each from Ireland and Mauritius. 

They are now teaching in various regions across WA, with 24 in the South Metro area, 10 in the Wheatbelt, nine in the Midwest, seven in the Goldfields, five in the Pilbara, four in the South West, and one in the Kimberley. 

The educators are filling roles across different school levels, with 36 in secondary schools, 16 in primary schools, six in education support, and two in early childhood education. 

Making the move to Australia, sometimes from the other side of the world, is a big decision, and for many it is a life-changing one.  

Adjusting to a new country comes with surprises, from cultural differences to unique Australian wildlife.  

"We've completely uprooted ourselves. We've sold a house, we sold everything, and we started again," said David.  

"It's very scary, but exciting at the same time.

"We went to a park in Meadow Bay and saw a wasp dragging a spider across the path. It was bigger than any spider I’ve ever seen before. 

“We saddled up to a sign that said ‘Tiger snakes’, a bit about tiger snakes. We looked down to our right and there a tiger snake. 

“We wanted something completely different and we’ve definitely found that so far.” 

Those newly arrived are teaching a range of subjects, including primary education (16), education support (six), early childhood (two), humanities and social sciences (HASS) (nine), English (six), mathematics (five), science (five), design and technology (five), physical education (three), and other secondary subjects (three). 

The response from students has been overwhelmingly positive. Schools have embraced their new staff members, with students eager to teach them Aussie slang and help them feel at home.  

“We’re on our 12th (international teacher, which has been fantastic,” said Sandii Stankovic, Principal at Narrogin Senior High School. 

“They’ve been well received. They bring a culture of excitement. The relationship-building has been great.”  

For anyone considering the move, new Narrogin Senior High School teacher Siobhan says, "Just go for it. It might seem daunting, but once you start the process, you realise, yes, I can do this! 

“It’s been a brilliant experience. Something that could have been extremely stressful, like moving across the world, they’ve helped so much. So, with every question I could have asked, they’ve helped.”: 

Since the start of the program, in January 2023, the Department has appointed 253 international teachers. 

More information about becoming a teacher in public schools in Western Australia can be found on our website¹.