School teachers create and teach lessons on a many different topics to help students develop and improve.

School teachers teach their students in a number of different ways, including formal lessons, discussions, hands-on activities, experiments, projects, assignments, excursions and games.

School teachers undertake specific training to teach in secondary schools, primary schools, or early childhood settings.

Early Childhood Teachers
Early childhood teachers plan and conduct programs to continue a young child's learning and development.

Some tasks that an early childhood teacher may perform are:

• plan activities using a variety of materials and equipment to develop coordination, social skills, creativity, self-expression and an interest in learning
• promote language development and self-confidence through story telling, drama, music and
  discussions
• encourage children to question and explore the world in which they live
• observe children to evaluate and record their progress, and recommend appropriate programs
  for further development, and to detect signs of developmental disorder, ill health or emotional
  problems
• promote an awareness and appreciation of the multicultural society in which we live
• discuss with parents and other teachers aspects of the children's development

Early childhood teachers work in preschool centres, early education classes, community kindergartens and community child-care centres.

Primary School Teachers
Primary school teachers are responsible for the school education of students in the years between early childhood and secondary levels (Kindergarten to Year Six).

Some tasks that a primary school teacher may perform are:

• teach the key learning areas of English (reading, writing, speaking and listening), Maths, Science, Technology, Society and Environment, Creative Arts and Personal Development, Health and Physical Education, by using a wide range of activities
• develop children's interests, abilities and coordination using creative activities such as art, music and sport
• use computers to assist in lesson preparation, teaching and reporting
• discuss students' progress and concerns with parents

Primary school teachers are usually trained to teach all subjects. Some undertake further studies to become specialist primary teachers who develop and teach programs for students with special needs, rural and isolated children, and children that speak English as a second language.

Secondary School Teachers
Secondary school teachers teach one or more subjects within the school curriculum to secondary students (Years Seven to Twelve.)

Most secondary school teachers are qualified to teach at least two subjects within the key learning areas of English, Mathematics, Science, The Art, Health and Physical Education, Technology, Languages other than English, and Studies of Society and Environment.

To become a teacher you need an approved teaching qualification, such as a Bachelor of Education or Teaching, specialising in primary, secondary or early childhood education. Or you may qualify by completing a graduate diploma in education after completing your first degree.