Selection criteria
Candidates for graduate teacher recruitment will need to demonstrate competencies as graduate teachers in relation to the NSW Institute of Teachers Professional Teaching Standards. For more information about the Professional Teaching Standards, go to www.nswteachers.nsw.edu.au.
The Professional Teaching Standards form the basis of the selection criteria and interview questions.
The Framework of Professional Teaching Standards includes three teaching domains and seven elements.
PROFESSIONAL KNOWLEDGE
Element 1: Teachers know their subject content and how to teach that content to their students
You may be asked questions about your:
- understanding of current Board of Studies syllabuses and the Department’s guidelines on curriculum content and teaching methods
- ability to plan lessons in accordance with the educational needs and individual learning styles of students
- competence in integrating information technology in learning and teaching.
Element 2: Teachers know their students and how they learn
You may be asked questions about your:
- understanding of students’ welfare and their learning
- ability to cater for the individual needs of all students in a just and equitable manner
- ability to improve learning outcomes by motivating all students through the application of a wide range of teaching approaches and strategies.
PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE
Element 3: Teachers plan, assess and report for effective learning
You may be asked questions about your understanding of the role of monitoring, assessment and reporting to enhance learning outcomes, including outcomes in literacy and numeracy.
Element 4: Teachers communicate effectively with their students
You may be asked questions about your ability to use the English language effectively in oral and written communication.
Element 5: Teachers create and maintain safe and challenging learning environments through the use of classroom management skills
You may be asked questions about your:
- capacity to establish and maintain a purposeful, interesting and challenging learning environment for all students
- capacity to create an environment of respect and rapport
- skills in conflict resolution.
PROFESSIONAL COMMITMENT
Element 6: Teachers continually improve their professional knowledge and practice
You may be asked questions about your:
- understanding of the role of critical reflection and feedback in relation to teacher performance
- awareness of the need for ongoing professional development
- ability to embrace educational innovation and change.
Element 7: Teachers are actively engaged members of their profession and the wider community
You may be asked questions about your:
- ability to recognise and appreciate the values held by students, families and the community in relation to the role of a teacher
- understanding of the importance of leadership skills in the teaching profession
- contribution to groups such as students’ representative councils, social organisations, sporting associations or community.
