South African teachers in Australia: Monique’s journey
- SA-Recruitment
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
Making the decision to move abroad as a teacher is never easy. For many South African teachers, the path to Australia often begins with international experience elsewhere, a stepping stone that helps them build confidence and adaptability before making the big leap. Monique’s story is a great example of this journey.
After teaching in South Africa for a few years, she spent several more years working in the Middle East. That experience not only broadened her teaching skills but also prepared her and her family for the move to Australia.
Today Monique is a High School English teacher living and working just outside Melbourne. She shares the highs, the challenges, and the everyday realities of building a new life as a South African teacher in Australia.
These stories, honest and unfiltered, are invaluable for anyone considering making the move. They provide a true insight into what life is really like as a teacher abroad. Here is Monique’s experience in her own words.
Why did you contact SA-Recruitment to assist you in securing a position in Australia?
As a family we knew we could not stay in the UAE forever, my son needed “normality” and we decided to make the move to Australia. I had a family member who was successful with her application using SA-Recruitment and heard how smooth the entire transition was.
What were some of the initial challenges and feelings when you started on the journey of this move to Australia?
Firstly, getting to the point of being “paper ready” was daunting. Having to go through the process of getting IELTS, police clearance and the letter from your university. But as soon as I started the process, I realized there are a lot of resources one can use.
What are your initial thoughts and impressions of your new Australian school?
The workload for one is much less than what I experienced in the UAE and South Africa. I really love my school. The support I have received from colleagues has been amazing. The behaviour of students is also good. Obviously due to their age they do take chances, but overall they are very respectful.
How about work-life balance. Do you feel you are able to manage this better at all?
This has been the most impressive part of our move. For the first time we can enjoy weekends for what they are. I have not worked over a weekend or after school hours. I can completely switch off from school during my time at home.
What have some of the challenges been for you in settling into a new life in a new country and also adapting to a new school?
Honestly, I have not experienced any challenges settling in. I did a lot of research before coming over and was able to find a school for my son, a home and a car even before I landed in Australia. At school I have been patient with myself, understanding that it takes time to learn new processes, cultures and ways of doing things.
Living in Australia, what have been some of the rewards so far for you and for your family?
Seeing my son enjoying the outdoors, joining the scouts and going on camps. Watching him play cricket and enjoying school has been the best reward. Coming from the UAE, just being able to have a braai and spending time in our garden has been good for our soul.
How does the cost of living compare to South Africa?
We are able to live comfortably on just my salary and we are currently saving my husband’s entire salary. We would never have been able to do that in either South Africa or the UAE. We are blessed and were able to save up before coming over, which ensured that we have no debt which helps a lot.
How do you feel about safety?
We made a conscious decision to not live in Melbourne, but to rather commute and stay on the outskirts. The 30 minute drive to Melbourne is easy when you know that you can leave your door open during the day in the town (Sunbury) that you are.
What is the best advice you can give to teachers considering the move to Australia?
Choose your location wisely. Do a lot of research and don’t give up with IELTS, eventually you will get the desired score.
Conclusion
Monique’s story shows that while the move to Australia requires preparation, patience and a willingness to adapt, the rewards can be life-changing. From better work-life balance to financial stability and improved quality of life for her family, her journey highlights both the challenges and the immense possibilities that come with teaching in Australia.
For South African teachers considering this step, Monique’s experience is proof that with the right support, thorough research and persistence, the dream of teaching and thriving in Australia can become a reality.
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