From early childhood to secondary school, 10 teachers reflect on the relationships, experiences and rewards that have shaped their work.
What makes teaching a meaningful career? For World Teachers’ Day on Friday 30 October, the Australian Government Department of Education is shining a light on the people behind the profession through a collection of 10 videos featuring early childhood, primary and secondary teachers.
Their stories explore different aspects of teaching, from supporting children’s early learning and sharing culture to building relationships, witnessing student growth and finding fulfilment in the profession.
Building foundations for learning
For early childhood educators, teaching is about more than introducing children to new ideas. It also means supporting their development, recognising their individual experiences and helping them make sense of the world around them.
Monique reflects on the importance of sharing culture, while Greta explores supporting children’s learning. Jay offers a perspective on what it means to be a teacher in early childhood education.
Together, their stories highlight the role educators play in shaping children’s early experiences of learning.
Seeing students grow
One of the distinctive rewards of teaching is being able to see how students change and develop over time.
Primary teachers Danni and Emma reflect on being part of children’s learning journeys and witnessing their growth. Jye considers the role teachers play as children grow towards adulthood.
For Peta, the focus is on the most rewarding parts of teaching, while Rachel explores the importance of building strong relationships.
Their perspectives offer a reminder that teaching involves both academic learning and the relationships that help students develop confidence, skills and a sense of belonging.
Finding purpose in the profession
For some teachers, the value of the profession is reflected in the difference they can make in young people’s lives. For others, it is the realisation that teaching is the right career for them.
Secondary teachers Cathie reflects on the greatest thing about being a teacher, while Andrew shares his perspective on choosing teaching as a career.
Their stories round out the collection, offering further insight into what draws people to teaching and what makes the work worthwhile.
Recognising the people behind student success
World Teachers’ Day is an opportunity to recognise the expertise, commitment and care teachers bring to their work every day.
For school leaders, that recognition can extend beyond a single day. Creating supportive workplaces, enabling professional learning and valuing teachers’ expertise are important considerations in building and retaining a strong teaching workforce.
These 10 stories provide an opportunity to hear from teachers themselves and reflect on the contribution they make to students, schools and communities.
Explore the full collection: Australian Government Department of Education: Considering a teaching career?
World Teachers’ Day in Australia is celebrated on Friday 30 October 2026, under the theme ‘Shine a light on Teachers’.
