A group of pre‑service teachers from the University of Sydney gained firsthand insight into the rewards of working in regional, rural and remote NSW as part of the NSW Department of Education’s Beyond the Line Program.

The Beyond the Line Program supports second, third and final-year Bachelor of Education and Master of Teaching students to travel with the department on an expenses-paid, five-day study tour to experience teaching at selected regional, rural and remote NSW public schools.

Last year, 11 initial teacher education students studying at the University of Sydney travelled across the Riverina and Southern Tablelands, visiting public schools and engaging with local educators and communities. 

Their experience reflects the University of Sydney School of Education and Social Work’s commitment to preparing future teachers for diverse learning environments and strengthening educational opportunities across NSW.

Across the study tour, students visited 17 public schools, where they were welcomed into classrooms and rural communities. 

Participants connected with dedicated local teachers and learned how strong community ties and the distinctive character of regional schools shape the teaching and student experience.

For Nathan, a fourth‑year Bachelor of Education student, the tour confirmed his passion for taking his career to rural NSW.

"It was a once‑in‑a‑lifetime opportunity that solidified my interest in teaching in a rural NSW public school," he said.

Savanah, a final‑year Bachelor of Education student, described the experience as eye‑opening:

"Participating in the Beyond the Line Program gave me the chance to experience the richness of teaching in rural NSW, where strong communities and unique opportunities shape learning."

Their reflections echo a common theme among participants, that regional schools offer meaningful connection, professional growth and the chance to make a lasting impact.

The Beyond the Line Program remains a valuable pathway for pre‑service teachers curious about rural and remote teaching. 

The tour offers students the chance to explore new environments and build relationships with future colleagues while understanding the real-world rewards of working in regional communities.

Staff from the Sydney School of Education and Social Work continue to champion the program, noting the significant benefits it provides for students considering a career in regional, rural and remote NSW. 

"It's been wonderful to see pre-service teachers take up the opportunity to go Beyond the Line and then to commence professional experience placements or employment in regional, rural and remote NSW public schools," said University Partnership Lead Gillian Newall, who is based on campus two days per week to give personalised career advice on teaching to undergraduate and postgraduate students.

Krisha, a second‑year Master of Teaching student, encouraged others to take part:

"I can't recommend the Beyond the Line study tour enough. My experience exceeded my expectations, and I am definitely more likely to apply to teach in a rural or remote public school."

With strong partnerships between the University of Sydney and the NSW Department of Education, the Beyond the Line Program continues to open doors for aspiring teachers.

The 2026 Beyond the Line study tour for pre-service teachers will run from Monday 7 September to Friday 11 September.

Applications to participate in the Beyond the Line program are open from Monday 30 March to Friday 8 May. Students interested in exploring the rewarding pathways available in regional and remote NSW public schools can visit the Beyond the Line Program webpage for more details.

Gillian Newall is available on campus to answer questions about the program or teaching in NSW public schools. She can be contacted at teachnsw@det.edu.au or gillian.newal@sydney.edu.au.