Teachers across NSW have gone above and beyond throughout the pandemic.
But even before the virus, teachers were working more than 55 hours every week to keep up with rising student needs and the ever-changing curriculum.
Workloads are up, and salaries aren’t keeping pace.
But you don’t need us to tell you that because we all know a teacher who lives this every day.
These are their stories.
Nikolai Liu, High School teacher, Blue Mountains
What is the best thing about being a teacher? The best thing about being a teacher is the fact that you make a difference in people's lives and help give them a better future.
Louise Cleary, Teacher Librarian, Coffs Harbour
What is the best thing about being a teacher? I have been a high school teacher librarian for about 35 years. The reason I came into the teaching profession was because I love the interaction with the students and my colleagues. I also love the fact that teaching and learning is SO important not just in the moment, but in a person’s entire life! I love that!
Michael Sciffer, School Counsellor, Northern NSW
The More Than Thanks campaign calls for dual-qualified school counsellors and senior psychologists education to be paid at a new rate, linked to head teacher, assistant principal and deputy principal salary rates respectively.
Read more about what Michael, a school counsellor from rural NSW has to say about why he enjoys teaching, what needs to change, and why he believes teachers deserve More Than Thanks.
Andrew, High School Teacher, Sydney
As a teacher in south west Sydney, Andrew is overworked and underpaid. He is deeply committed to his students and could achieve far more with them with additional time and resources.
Amelia, High School Teacher, Sydney
Amelia is a high school teacher from northern Sydney who is committed to the profession. Read more about why Amelia believes teachers like her deserve More Than Thanks.
Penny Colman, Primary School Teacher, Southern Highlands
Penny has taught in primary schools and support settings for more than 14 years. She has seen a lot change in that time and is concerned about the rising workloads and declining salaries within the teaching profession. Read why Penny believes teachers deserve More Than Thanks.