S9 Ep5: Remote, Regional and Rural Teaching Experiences...Principals' Perspectives: Thriving in Regional, Rural, and Remote Educational Experiences Part 2

In this episode, Narelle Lemon, Teachers Supporting Teachers producer and professor based at the Mount Lawley campus at Edith Cowan University, and her series co-host Marnie Harris, a lecturer based in the South West Campus in Bunbury, continue their conversation with Kimberley principals Eliot, Paul, and Esther.

This is part two of a conversation with principals from the Kimberley region of Western Australia.  Part one can be accessed here. 

The discussion explores the collaborative efforts that universities and regional, rural, and remote schools can undertake to enhance professional experiences for pre-service teachers. The principals share their insights on how to retain pre-service teachers beyond their initial professional experience placement, emphasizing the importance of providing diverse experiences and fostering a supportive environment.

Elliot and Esther discuss the unique opportunities available for pre-service teachers in regional, rural, and remote schools, both inside and outside the classroom. These opportunities include professional growth, leadership development, and the ability to tailor teaching strategies to the specific needs of the community.

The principals also share inspiring stories of pre-service teachers who have thrived in their schools, demonstrating the transformative power of these experiences and the lasting impact they can have on both the teachers and the communities they serve.

The conversation touches on the importance of self-care and well-being for teachers in regional, rural, and remote settings, with the principals offering practical tips for managing the challenges of the wet season and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

The episode concludes with valuable advice for pre-service teachers considering a placement in a regional, rural, or remote school, emphasizing the importance of communication, asking questions, seeking help when needed, and building strong relationships with students, staff, and the community.

Listeners are encouraged to reflect on keywords such as awareness, collaboration, perspective, open-mindedness, legacy, diversity, adventure, opportunity, and catalyst as they consider the possibilities for their own rural, regional, and remote educational experiences.

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Kimberley Region of Western Australia

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