Thinking about a career as a Trainer and Assessor (TAFE teacher)? You probably have a few questions about how it all works.
On this page we've answered the most common questions about becoming a TAFE teacher.
If you need help, get in touch.
TAFE teaching could be a good fit if you:
- have strong industry experience
- want to share your knowledge
- are looking for a career change.
You don’t need to be an experienced teacher to get started. Many people move into teaching after working in their industry.
To prepare for becoming a TAFE teacher, you’ll complete a qualification in training and assessment. You can also get support with learning or improving skills like using computers.
If you have experience in your industry, you already have the most important skills you need to be a TAFE teacher. You will do some extra training to prepare you for being a teacher, but you don't need previous teaching experience.
TAFE teachers bring:
- real industry experience
- practical skills and knowledge
- the ability to explain and demonstrate tasks.
To become a TAFE teacher, you need to complete a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE40122).
This qualification teaches you how to:
- plan and deliver training
- support adult learners
- assess skills and knowledge.
Support is available to help you complete this training.
You may be able to get help paying for your qualification and related expenses through the TAE Support Package for Students, which offers scholarships, subsidised training and travel assistance for eligible Queenslanders. Find out more about the TAE Support Package for Students.
There is strong demand for TAFE teachers in many industries across Queensland. Jobs are available at TAFE as well as other training providers, like CQUniversity and private providers.
Your opportunities will depend on:
- your industry experience
- your qualifications
- demand in your area.
We can help you understand available roles. Contact us to discuss demand in your area.
Financial help may be available to help you complete the teaching qualification needed to be a TAFE teacher. What's available to you depends on your situation.
The TAE Support Package for Students provides scholarships, subsidised training places and travel assistance to help eligible Queenslanders complete the Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE40122). Find out more about the TAE Support Package for Students.
Eligible registered training organisation (RTO) employers may also be able to access the TAE Support Package for Employers. This package offers financial help for RTOs to employ trainees who will undertake TAE40122 as well as scholarship payments for trainees.
TAFE teachers are needed across Queensland, including in regional areas. Where exactly you can teach depends on your industry and the campus locations near you.
We can help you find opportunities near you. Get in touch to discuss your next step.
You need:
- experience working in your industry
- a relevant qualification.
If you’re unsure, we can help assess your experience. Contact us for more information.
Support is available to help you move into teaching.
This may include:
- mentoring from experienced teachers
- professional development
- support to complete your teaching qualification
- financial help.
Get in touch to find out more.
There is also support available for eligible registered training organisation (RTO) employers.
Yes, you may be able to get:
- recognition of prior learning (RPL) for your existing skills and experience
- recognition of relevant overseas qualifications.
This can reduce the amount of study you need to do.
The first step is to contact us.
We can provide information to help you:
- understand the requirements
- explore your options
- plan your pathway into teaching
- assess your eligibility for financial support.
Get advice about becoming a TAFE teacher
Need more help?
The $2 million TAFE teacher recruitment drive is an election commitment of the Queensland Government. This commitment and programs supporting teacher training and employment form part of Measures to Strengthen the VET Workforce, a joint initiative between the Australian and Queensland Governments.