Accredited courses from leading Australian universities, TAFEs and colleges

StudySelect branding logo with stylized graduation cap

Select Industry

Courses by Study Type

Providers

Career Advice

​
career-vectorCareer overview: what it takes to become a Geography Teacher in Australia

How to Become a Geography Teacher in Australia: careers in Education

Icon representing Geography Teacher career
Sorry, we don't have any courses leading to a career as a Geography Teacher for you at the moment. Please try searching again.

Definition of a Geography Teacher

A career as a Geography Teacher offers a unique opportunity to inspire students by exploring the intricate relationships between people, places, and the environment. Geography Teachers play a vital role in shaping young minds, helping them understand the world around them through the study of physical landscapes, human societies, and the interconnectedness of global systems. This profession not only fosters a sense of curiosity about the planet but also encourages critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are essential in today’s rapidly changing world.

In their daily responsibilities, Geography Teachers design engaging lesson plans that cover a wide range of topics, from climate change and urban development to cultural diversity and economic systems. They create a dynamic classroom environment where students can participate in discussions, group projects, and hands-on activities that bring geographical concepts to life. By utilising various teaching methods and technologies, Geography Teachers ensure that their lessons are accessible and relevant to all students, catering to different learning styles and interests.

Assessment and feedback are also key components of a Geography Teacher’s role. They evaluate student progress through assignments, tests, and projects, providing constructive feedback that helps students grow academically. Additionally, Geography Teachers often collaborate with colleagues to develop interdisciplinary projects that highlight the connections between geography and other subjects, such as history, science, and social studies. This collaborative approach not only enriches the curriculum but also fosters a sense of community among educators and students alike.

Ultimately, a career as a Geography Teacher is not just about imparting knowledge; it is about nurturing informed and responsible global citizens. By instilling a sense of environmental stewardship and cultural awareness, Geography Teachers empower their students to engage with the world thoughtfully and actively. This rewarding profession offers the chance to make a lasting impact on future generations, guiding them to appreciate the complexities of our planet and the importance of sustainable living.

On this Page

What Will I Do

What Skills Do I Need

Career Snapshot

Resources

What does a Geography Teacher do?

A Geography Teacher plays a vital role in shaping students’ understanding of the world around them. By exploring physical landscapes, human interactions, and environmental issues, they inspire a sense of curiosity and responsibility towards the planet. Their daily tasks encompass a variety of educational and administrative responsibilities, all aimed at fostering a comprehensive understanding of geographical concepts among students.

  • Lesson Planning – Developing engaging and informative lesson plans that cover various geographical topics and align with the curriculum.
  • Classroom Instruction – Delivering lectures and facilitating discussions to help students grasp complex geographical concepts.
  • Assessment and Evaluation – Creating and grading assignments, tests, and projects to assess student understanding and progress.
  • Field Trips – Organising and leading field trips to provide students with real-world experiences related to geography.
  • Resource Management – Selecting and utilising appropriate teaching materials, such as maps, atlases, and digital resources.
  • Student Support – Offering additional help and guidance to students who may be struggling with the subject matter.
  • Professional Development – Participating in workshops and training sessions to stay updated on the latest teaching methods and geographical research.
  • Collaboration – Working with other teachers and staff to integrate geography with other subjects and enhance interdisciplinary learning.
  • Community Engagement – Involving students in local environmental projects or initiatives to promote awareness and responsibility.

What skills do I need to be a Geography Teacher?

A career as a Geography Teacher requires a diverse set of skills that blend academic knowledge with effective communication and interpersonal abilities. A strong foundation in geographical concepts, including physical geography, human geography, and environmental studies, is essential. Additionally, teachers must possess the ability to convey complex ideas in an engaging manner, fostering a stimulating learning environment that encourages student participation and critical thinking.

Moreover, Geography Teachers should be adept at utilising various teaching methods and technologies to enhance the learning experience. Skills in curriculum development, assessment design, and classroom management are also crucial. An understanding of current global issues and the ability to relate these topics to students’ lives can inspire a deeper appreciation for the subject. Ultimately, a successful Geography Teacher combines passion for the discipline with a commitment to nurturing students’ curiosity about the world around them.

Skills/attributes

  • Strong communication skills
  • Passion for geography and environmental issues
  • Ability to engage and motivate students
  • Critical thinking and analytical skills
  • Organisational skills for lesson planning
  • Adaptability to different learning styles
  • Knowledge of educational technology
  • Patience and empathy
  • Collaboration and teamwork abilities
  • Commitment to ongoing professional development

Does this sound like you?

Career Snapshot for a Geography Teacher

The role of a Geography Teacher is vital in shaping students’ understanding of the world, its environments, and the interconnections between human and physical geography. This profession not only fosters critical thinking but also encourages students to engage with global issues.

  • Average Age: Approximately 40 years old.
  • Gender Distribution: Predominantly female, with around 70% of Geography Teachers being women.
  • Hours per Week: Typically, Geography Teachers work around 38-40 hours per week, including teaching, preparation, and administrative duties.
  • Average Pay: The average salary for a Geography Teacher in Australia is approximately AUD 75,000 per year.
  • Unemployment Rate: The unemployment rate for teachers, including Geography Teachers, is relatively low at about 2.5%.
  • Employment Numbers: There are approximately 30,000 Geography Teachers employed across Australia.
  • Projected Growth: The demand for Geography Teachers is expected to grow by 5% over the next five years, driven by increasing student enrolments and a focus on environmental education.

This information highlights the importance of Geography Teachers in the educational landscape, reflecting both the stability and growth potential of this career path.

Education Career resources

NATIONAL

QLD

VIC

WA

SA

NT

ACT

TAS

StudySelect makes every effort to ensure the information we provide is correct at the time of publication. We welcome your input to help keep our career profiles as accurate and up to date as possible. All queries and feedback will be taken into consideration as we conduct periodic reviews of our content. Add your voice to the conversation!