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How to Become a Psychology Teacher: Australian Careers in Education

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What is a Psychology Teacher?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Resources

What is a Psychology Teacher?

A Psychology Teacher helps secondary students understand human behaviour and how the mind works. They ground each lesson in psychological theory and the Australian curriculum.

In the classroom, Psychology Teachers plan and deliver lessons on cognition, social behaviour, and developmental psychology. They set assessments, mark work, and give feedback to support student growth. They use a range of methods to suit different learners.

Outside lessons, Psychology Teachers work with colleagues to shape the school curriculum. They take part in staff meetings, parent nights, and school events. Many also mentor students who want to study psychology at university.

This career suits people who love the subject and want to share it. It offers steady work, clear career growth, and the chance to shape students’ futures every day.

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Career snapshots For Psychology Teachers

Psychology Teachers work in secondary schools across Australia. Most work full-time in ongoing roles, typically 38 to 45 hours per week during term time (yourcareer.gov.au, 2024). The average age of secondary teachers sits in the late 30s to mid-40s (AITSL, 2023).

Education and Training accounts for about 9% of national jobs in Australia (yourcareer.gov.au, 2024). Sector jobs grew by 4.9% in the most recent year. Jobs and Skills Australia rates demand for secondary teachers as stable (2024). Jobs are set to stay steady as student numbers grow. The average weekly pay for a secondary teacher is $2,166, or about $103,000 per year (yourcareer.gov.au, 2024).

What will I do?

A Psychology Teacher plans, delivers, and assesses psychology lessons for secondary students. They build a classroom where curiosity and critical thinking can thrive. They link theory to real examples so students see why the subject matters.

  • Plan Lessons: design lesson plans aligned to the state psychology curriculum and the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers.
  • Deliver Lessons: teach cognitive, social, and developmental psychology using varied, engaging methods.
  • Run Discussions: guide classroom conversations that build critical thinking and respect for different views.
  • Set and Mark Assessments: create tests, essays, and projects; give clear, useful feedback on each.
  • Support Students: identify students who need extra help and provide targeted support or refer them to welfare staff.
  • Update Subject Knowledge: read current psychology research and apply it to keep lessons accurate and fresh.
  • Work with Colleagues: contribute to the psychology faculty, share teaching resources, and help review the curriculum.
  • Talk to Families: report on student progress at parent evenings and respond to family enquiries.
  • Attend Professional Development: complete the hours required by your state teacher registration body each year.
  • Mentor Students: advise students who are thinking about psychology or related university pathways.

What skills do I need?

A Psychology Teacher needs a strong base in psychological theory. They must break down complex ideas clearly for students at all levels. Good verbal and written communication is key, as is the skill to lead discussions that push students to think.

Good organisation helps with lesson planning, marking, and meeting deadlines. Empathy and patience allow teachers to support students through personal and academic challenges. Adaptability is vital too: lessons must suit a wide range of learning styles and needs.

Skills/attributes

  • Deep knowledge of psychological theories and research methods
  • Clear verbal and written communication
  • Lesson planning and curriculum design
  • Assessment design and constructive feedback
  • Classroom management and student engagement
  • Patience and empathy with adolescent learners
  • Adaptability across different learning styles and needs
  • Critical thinking and analytical reasoning
  • Collaboration with colleagues and school leadership
  • Commitment to ongoing professional development and registration requirements

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About the author

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.