What is approval to teach?

The NSW Department of Education is the largest education system in Australia, with a range of employment opportunities available for qualified teachers.

Whether you are a new graduate or experienced teacher seeking employment in any NSW public school, you will first need to successfully meet the department’s requirements for approval to teach.

Before you start your application for approval to teach, you will need to receive your NSW Working with Children Check clearance from the NSW Office of the Children’s Guardian and apply for and gain accreditation from the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA).

To find specific steps you need to follow to gain approval to teach select your pathway below.

Changes from 2019

In 2019, the approval to teach process has been updated to ensure all students in NSW public schools have access to high-quality teachers.

Information and advice about the new requirements for new graduates and experienced teachers will be updated throughout the year. Make sure you sign up to be alerted of new information as it becomes available and explore the frequently asked questions.

Find your pathway to approval to teach in NSW public schools

Choose the pathway below that matches your situation.

I am….

• A graduate who commenced my teacher education course prior to 2019 (including graduates from NSW, interstate and overseas)
• A graduate who commenced my teacher education course from January 2019 and beyond (including graduates from NSW, interstate and overseas)
• An experienced NSW public school teacher returning after a break from service
• An experienced teacher from another NSW system, or from interstate or overseas.

Read the FAQs

Get answers to your questions about the approval to teach process

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