Why you should teach in Australia... Armela's Story

Armela is a teacher originally from Canada, who has been teaching in Melbourne, Australia! If you’re thinking about living and teaching in Aus then this blog is perfect for you. Armela explains the process of moving, finding work, the biggest differences between Canada and Australia, her best travel advice and more…

Why did you decide to teach in Australia?
In 2019, I graduated from Brock University. Prior to graduation, I attended the Job Fair in Hamilton, where I had the opportunity to speak to many recruitment agencies and school boards. Anzuk stood out to me, as they discussed the different teaching opportunities they had in both Australia and the UK. Australia has always been a destination I have wanted to go to and after speaking to Cooper about his experience teaching in Melbourne, I knew I had to make the move! I left in June of 2019 and am still here nearly two years later!

What made you choose anzuk as your preferred agency?
I chose anzuk as my preferred agency, as they offered teaching opportunities in many different parts of Australia including Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Geelong and Perth. Anzuk was also very supportive in assisting with the entire process, from registering for your VIT to landing in Melbourne. My teaching experience was catered to my needs and preferences and I was even put on an ambassador program that guaranteed me casual relief work throughout my time with anzuk. I am so thankful that I chose anzuk, as they really care about their teachers and support them throughout their entire journey.

AFL Game

How did you find the transition and registration process with anzuk?
I found the transition and registration process with anzuk quite easy and stress free. I was sent a detailed handbook explaining everything including setting up a bank account, setting up a phone plan, getting insurance, etc. Gillian and Cooper were also always available at any time during the day to answer any questions I had throughout my registration process. Anzuk also connects you to a Facebook group, where you’re able to connect with other teachers who are moving to Australia and find people to live with. Once you land in Australia, anzuk sets up social events where you can meet other international travellers and ask any questions you may have to the anzuk consultants.

How did you find the support from anzuk?
Anzuk was so supportive throughout my entire journey. I never struggled financially and received constant work my entire time in Melbourne. Anzuk was also very flexible and allowed me to still travel when I wanted to and ensured I was sent to schools in my area and based on my preferences. Anzuk consultants were always available to discuss any concerns I had, offered professional development sessions and opportunities for contract positions. They made the transition quite easy and were supportive in every way.

What are the biggest differences you have found between teaching in Australia and Canada?
The biggest difference in teaching in Australia and Canada would have to be that Australia doesn’t have “school boards” and as a registered teacher in Victoria, you can apply to work at any school. Anzuk is great, as they ensure you build relationships with schools and send you back to your preferred schools, which assists in your ability to obtain a full-time position. Most schools are also very helpful with planning and supporting you as a new teacher once you do obtain a full-time position.

Wilsons Prom

What did you enjoy most about teaching and living overseas?
I am very happy that I chose Melbourne to live and teach in. Anzuk allowed me to meet so many new people from all around the world, that I can now call my best friends. I have also been able to travel to nearly every state in Australia and try out many new things such as surfing, snorkelling and hopefully soon sky diving! I have gained so much confidence in my ability to teach a variety of grades and subjects and I know this experience will benefit my teaching career in Canada.

What advice would you give to someone thinking of making the move overseas from Canada?
My advice would be to reach out to anzuk and connect with other teachers who have made the move. Do your research on where you want to live and what opportunities are available, so that you’re not surprised when you arrive. Melbourne is a big city, however, has nearby beaches and great weather! Once you’re in Australia, it’s very easy and quite cheap to travel to different parts in Australia. I definitely recommend travelling during the school holidays and working while you’re here to allow you to do so. Moving to Australia was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made and I’m forever grateful for anzuk for giving me this opportunity.

How did you find teaching in the Special Education Schools in Melbourne? What did you take away from that experience and how will it help you back home?
I CRT’d in a few different Special Education Schools in Melbourne and at first, I wasn’t quite sure if it was for me or not. Working in a Special Education School has its challenges, but you will soon realise how rewarding it is and you build such strong connections with the students. I obtained my first contract position in a Special Education School, that was able to sponsor me and allow me to stay in Australia. I am now going into my second year of working in a Special Education School and I am so grateful that I gave it a go. I have received so much support from my colleagues in terms of planning and team teaching and have learned a lot about the Victorian curriculum. I have made connections with students that I will never forget, and it truly is such a rewarding job at the end of the day. This experience will help me back home, as I have learned how I can support students with disabilities, and I feel very prepared if I have a student with Autism in a future teaching position in Canada.

Surfing Lesson