Discover the Wheatbelt, Western Australia’s heartland. With its diverse landscape and close-knit rural communities, this region offers a unique experience for educators.
Discover the Wheatbelt, just a short drive from Perth. Here, generations of farming families thrive amidst a tapestry of endless farmland, vibrant wildflowers, and historic towns. With its down-to-earth lifestyle and tight-knit communities, this region offers a sense of belonging.
Join the 59,000 residents across 200 towns and experience the true essence of rural life in Western Australia's cherished Wheatbelt.
Find out what it's like to live and work in the Wheatbelt.
Schools
In Wheatbelt schools, classes work closely together, often with mixed-age groups, fostering a sense of family within the learning environment. It's not uncommon to find siblings and even extended family members sharing the same educational journey, sometimes spanning generations. Agricultural and trades education is on offer to students from our WA Colleges of Agriculture in Cunderdin and Narrogin.
Students
Acknowledging the rich heritage of the Noongar and Gubrun peoples, Wheatbelt schools prioritise embedding Aboriginal culture, language, and knowledge into their curriculum. They actively collaborate with Aboriginal students, families, and communities to cultivate culturally responsive learning spaces.
Teachers and staff
Teachers in the region wear many hats, often working across subjects and supervising younger students during breaks. Part-time roles are prevalent, with many educators balancing teaching with parenting.
WA Colleges of Agriculture in Cunderin and Narrogin offer agricultural careers1 for those interested, while corporate support roles2 are available in the Wheatbelt Education Regional Office in Northam. Staff also work in our residential colleges located in Merredin, Moora, Narrogin and Northam.
The staff makeup reflects a blend of seasoned locals deeply rooted in the community and newcomers to teaching and leadership roles. These tight-knit communities rally behind their schools, enthusiastically supporting events and sports competitions through volunteering and fundraising efforts. With students forming strong bonds that extend beyond the classroom, Wheatbelt towns embody a spirit of camaraderie and mutual support.
Living in the Wheatbelt offers a unique blend of regional charm and connectivity. While immersed in the heart of rural teaching, you're still just a short drive away from Perth, with convenient access to neighbouring town centres.
Weather and climate
In the Wheatbelt, expect a Mediterranean climate characterised by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. With rainfall typically occurring between May and September, the region experiences distinct seasonal changes, influencing its agricultural patterns and landscape.
Economy
The region's economy thrives on diverse industries like mining, agriculture, and renewable energy, promising both stability and growth. In larger towns, multiple schools cater to surrounding communities, boasting a spectrum of amenities from retail outlets to healthcare facilities.
Housing options
Housing is provided for teachers (and some other eligible staff), subsidised through the Government Regional Officers Housing (GROH). This ensures comfortable living arrangements for educators, though availability may vary. Additional allowances and subsidies may be accessible depending on the school.
Things to do
Sports reign supreme in country life, with top-notch facilities offering recreational and competitive outlets for all ages. Engaging in local sports, be it playing, coaching, or refereeing, not only fosters community bonds but also establishes rapport with students and parents alike, enriching your teaching experience.
Nature enthusiasts will love the region's abundant reserves, offering opportunities for bushwalking, birdwatching, and wildflower spotting. With its strategic transport routes, the Wheatbelt serves as a gateway to explore Western Australia's diverse landscapes.
As spring unfolds, the fields burst into a riot of colours, inviting camping enthusiasts to immerse themselves in nature's beauty. Don't miss the chance to marvel at iconic landmarks like Wave Rock or indulge in a bit of stargazing under the vast Wheatbelt skies.
Throughout the year, vibrant community events such as markets, shows, and cultural festivals infuse the region with energy and charm, ensuring there's never a dull moment in the Wheatbelt.
