Paul

 Home: Scarborough, Ontario

 University: York

 Subject: English (in a rural school with sponsorship)

What Leading Out support and services have you enjoyed, or have assisted you, the most?

As a Leading Out teacher, I have really enjoyed the social outings that take place every now and then where you get to meet other teachers doing what you are doing.  The outings help you to meet people and take in some awesome Australian places or events.  I have also really enjoyed the assistance when making plans to travel around as we all have our own Leading Out travel agents.

The best place traveled within Australia:

I would have to say the best place I travelled to was Surfer’s Paradise.  The beach was beautiful and the nightlife was fantastic.  It seems like it caters to a lot of different interests and tastes so it was a great place to check out.

Tips for International Teachers?

In terms of tips for those who wish to come down, I would just say keep an open mind and even if you are initially scared of the move, people down here will always take care of you.  The Australian people are so warm and caring and will always lend a helping hand.

What have you enjoyed most about teaching in Victoria?

I have done both contract and CRT work in Australia and I have really enjoyed just how friendly the staff has always been.  The teachers here really seem to take care of another and are always willing to offer a helping hand, both professionally and even socially.  The staff always helped me to feel welcome and adapt to the school climate.

In terms of teaching similarities between teaching down here and back in Canada, I would have to say that both school systems are making a big push to incorporate more and more technology into the classroom.  In terms of differences, there do seem to be a lot more meetings for teachers down here, which can be good for giving support but also bad in the sense that they can be a little too time consuming.  Also, some schools have still kept the 6 period day which means that you generally teach an extra course or two than you would back in Canada (specifically Ontario).