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-vectorExplore training and pathways to become a History Teacher

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

trophy-icon0 Course
Symbolic icon for History Teacher profession
Sorry, we don't have any courses leading to a career as a History Teacher for you at the moment. Please try searching again.

Definition of a History Teacher

A career as a History Teacher is both rewarding and impactful, offering individuals the opportunity to inspire the next generation by sharing the rich tapestry of human history. History Teachers play a crucial role in shaping students’ understanding of the past, helping them to connect historical events with contemporary issues. They create engaging lesson plans that not only cover significant historical milestones but also encourage critical thinking and discussion among students. This role is perfect for those who are passionate about history and education, as it allows them to foster a love for learning in their students.

In their daily responsibilities, History Teachers prepare and deliver lessons that cover various historical periods, cultures, and events. They assess student progress through assignments, projects, and examinations, providing constructive feedback to help students improve. Additionally, they often incorporate technology and multimedia resources to enhance the learning experience, making history more accessible and engaging. Beyond the classroom, History Teachers may also participate in school events, collaborate with colleagues on interdisciplinary projects, and engage with the wider community to promote historical awareness.

Moreover, History Teachers have the unique opportunity to cultivate a classroom environment that values diversity and encourages students to explore different perspectives. They guide students in understanding the complexities of historical narratives, fostering empathy and critical analysis. This role not only contributes to students’ academic growth but also helps them develop essential life skills, such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. By instilling a sense of curiosity about the past, History Teachers empower students to become informed and active citizens in their communities.

Ultimately, a career as a History Teacher is about more than just imparting knowledge; it is about inspiring students to think critically about the world around them. With a focus on fostering a love for history and encouraging thoughtful discourse, History Teachers play a vital role in shaping the minds of future generations. Their dedication to education and passion for history make this career a fulfilling choice for those looking to make a positive impact in the lives of young learners.

On this Page

What Will I Do

What Skills Do I Need

Career Snapshot

Resources

What does a History Teacher do?

A career as a History Teacher is both rewarding and impactful, as it involves shaping the minds of future generations by imparting knowledge about the past. History Teachers play a crucial role in fostering critical thinking, cultural awareness, and an understanding of societal developments. They engage students with diverse teaching methods, encouraging them to explore historical events and their relevance to contemporary issues. This profession not only requires a deep understanding of historical content but also the ability to inspire and motivate students to appreciate the significance of history in their lives.

  • Lesson Planning – Developing comprehensive lesson plans that align with curriculum standards and engage students in historical inquiry.
  • Classroom Instruction – Delivering lectures and facilitating discussions that encourage student participation and critical thinking about historical events.
  • Assessment and Evaluation – Creating and grading assignments, tests, and projects to assess student understanding and progress in history.
  • Student Support – Providing additional help and resources to students who may be struggling with the material or require further clarification.
  • Curriculum Development – Collaborating with colleagues to design and improve history curriculum and teaching materials.
  • Professional Development – Participating in workshops, conferences, and training sessions to stay updated on teaching strategies and historical scholarship.
  • Classroom Management – Establishing a positive learning environment by managing student behaviour and fostering respect and collaboration among students.
  • Community Engagement – Organising field trips, guest speakers, and community projects that connect historical learning to real-world experiences.
  • Research and Resource Gathering – Staying informed about new historical research and educational resources to enhance teaching practices.
  • Parent Communication – Engaging with parents to discuss student progress and address any concerns regarding their child’s education in history.

What skills do I need to be a History Teacher?

A career as a history teacher requires a diverse set of skills that extend beyond a passion for the subject. Strong communication skills are essential, as teachers must convey complex historical concepts in an engaging and accessible manner. Additionally, critical thinking and analytical skills are vital for interpreting historical events and encouraging students to develop their own perspectives. A history teacher should also possess excellent organisational abilities to manage lesson plans, assessments, and classroom activities effectively.

Furthermore, adaptability and creativity play a significant role in engaging students with varying learning styles. A history teacher must be able to incorporate innovative teaching methods and technology to enhance the learning experience. Empathy and cultural awareness are equally important, as they help foster an inclusive classroom environment that respects diverse backgrounds and perspectives. Ultimately, a successful history teacher combines subject expertise with a commitment to nurturing students’ intellectual curiosity and critical thinking skills.

Skills/attributes

  • Strong knowledge of historical events and contexts
  • Effective communication skills
  • Ability to engage and motivate students
  • Critical thinking and analytical skills
  • Patience and empathy
  • Classroom management skills
  • Adaptability to different learning styles
  • Passion for teaching and history
  • Organisational skills for lesson planning
  • Collaboration and teamwork abilities
  • Commitment to ongoing professional development
  • Understanding of educational equity and diversity

Does this sound like you?

Career Snapshot for a History Teacher

Teach For Australia is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to addressing educational inequity in Australia. It recruits high-achieving university graduates to teach in low socioeconomic communities, providing them with a pathway to earn a Masters-level degree in teaching while making a significant impact in the classroom.

  • Average Age: Typically, participants are in their mid-20s to early 30s.
  • Gender Distribution: Approximately 60% female and 40% male.
  • Hours per Week: Teachers generally work around 40-50 hours per week, including lesson planning and administrative duties.
  • Average Pay: Starting salaries for teachers in Australia range from AUD 70,000 to AUD 80,000, depending on experience and location.
  • Unemployment Rate: The unemployment rate for teachers is relatively low, around 2-3%.
  • Number of People Employed: As of 2020, Teach For Australia has placed 968 associates in 256 schools.
  • Projected Growth: The demand for teachers, particularly in STEM and regional areas, is expected to grow, with initiatives to attract more professionals into the teaching workforce.

Teach For Australia continues to evolve, with government support and partnerships aimed at enhancing educational outcomes in disadvantaged communities.

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!