Lia

Home: Sidney, BC

University: Victoria

Subject Area: Primary

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

Leading Out has helped me connect with other teachers, and build those friendships that are crucial when you first arrive in a big city. Leading Out made me feel supported, and it was nice to know I have someone to call for any problem I come across big or small. It was helpful having a network that was there to “show me the ropes”.

The best place travelled within Australia:

Noosa Heads on the Sunshine Coast has been my favourite small town in Australia, after that Melbourne is definitely my favourite city.

Tips for International Teachers?

My biggest tip would be… feel the fear and do it anyways! Come with an open mind, and always smile. Have a few activities that you love doing with kids, and just remember to have a good time.

What have you enjoyed most about teaching in Victoria?

I have been working as a CRT, as well as coordinating a kid’s camp over the holidays. I love teaching in Melbourne because the staff are so welcoming, and being from overseas is a novelty for them. The students love to hear my accent!

The differences are subtle, but I was surprised that Australia still has uniforms. Another big difference is that Australia doesn’t use textbooks. In my opinion Australia and Canada have very similar standards for education, which made the transition easy for me as a teacher.