The UniSC Rural and Remote Education Program, delivered since mid-2010 with the generous support of the Tim Fairfax Family Foundation (TFFF), inspires the next generation of teachers to seek opportunities in rural and remote communities across Queensland.
The Program is a collaboration with around 100 schools throughout the state and provides bursaries and annual immersion trips for preservice teachers to experience the best of life and teaching in rural and remote communities. The program aims to support securing high-quality teachers for rural and remote schools.
Since 2010, the TFFF and UniSC partnership has enabled almost 900 bursary-funded students to undertake placements. This has resulted in teachers accepting positions in rural, regional, and remote schools and the provision of a quality education to children and families in those areas.
UniSC is grateful to the Tim Fairfax Family Foundation for their generous support. This important partnership ensures UniSC continues to deliver positive outcomes for rural and remote communities, and life-changing experiences for our students.
2024 program update
In 2024, 86 TFFF bursaries were awarded across Semesters 1 and 2, with pre-service teachers experiencing placement across the state from Weipa to Mt Isa and everywhere in between!
- 75% of students travelled more than 500km from home
- almost 80% say they will seek employment in a rural or remote community after graduating
2024 placement locations
What the students say
“I believe the one unique key learning I took away from my Rural and Remote placement is that although venturing out to these schools feels daunting, the experience is enormously worthwhile and rewarding. I completed two R&R placements in Mount Isa, with thanks to the TFFF. I loved it! I learnt the value of teachers in many students’ lives in these schools. The relationships I developed with students, teachers and school staff is something I will cherish for a lifetime. Saying I completed R&R PEx's is something I am proud of, and I look forward to beginning my teaching career in a R&R school.”
“This experience taught me so much about rural towns and their communities. The friends I made and relationships I built with students will stay with me forever. I was also able to learn about myself as a practitioner and how I respond in diverse situations. Overall, this experience made me more passionate about teaching and starting my career in rural communities.”
"I was shocked at how welcome everyone made me feel and the children out here are wonderful. Texas has a beautiful community, and it really helped me transition during my placement. This really 'myth-busted' a few things I had heard about rural communities and how they can be isolating. This has made it easier to consider doing my country service once I graduate."