Let’s get serious here for a bit, Ontario teachers. Everything that’s happening in Ontario politics and education right now means there couldn’t be a better time to apply for teaching jobs in New Zealand or Australia.

If you’ve been out of touch, here’s a quick rundown and what it means for you in the near future.

What’s happening to Ontario education?

• Teacher and education worker contracts expire at the end of August.

• Ontario Premier Doug Ford is proposing increases in class sizes (which means less electives will be available). He wants to create mandatory online courses for high school students. Ford also has alleged plans to save the province money by phasing out 3,475 teaching positions within the next four years. 

• Walkouts and protests for these changes are happening across the province, planned by students and teachers. Needless to say, these proposed cuts are not a good thing for people who want teaching jobs.

• Negotiations recently began between the Ford government and Ontario Secondary School Teacher’s Federation (OSSTF). Talks have so far included possibly bargaining away sick days.

What does this mean for Ontario teachers?

Some changes are likely about to be made that will cost Ontario’s teachers in the long run. First and foremost, if negotiations aren’t concluded by the end of August, Ontario teachers may go on strike.

Beyond that, we’re looking at the possibility of a real shortage of teaching jobs in primary and secondary schools in Ontario over the next five years. 

The government has claimed they won’t be cutting jobs, but instead just not rehiring staff after someone retires. That still means teaching positions are being slowly phased out.

BUT—if this has you stressed out about career prospects, read on. We’re here to help with one simple notion: who says you have to teach in Canada?

Teaching jobs in Australia and New Zealand

Although these turbulent political times are stressful, they also create the potential for Ontario teachers to embrace new job opportunities elsewhere.

While the Ford government eyeballs cuts in the province, teachers are in high demand in Australia and New Zealand. These countries need teachers, and if you’ve ever considered travelling to work—it’s a great time to do so. 

Leading Out is happy to help you find teaching positions in Australia and THEN some. We go the extra mile and help you apply for visas, find accommodation, and more. 

Besides getting a teaching job you’ll love, moving to Australia has many other benefits, including fabulous food and incredible travel opportunities!

Get in touch!

What have you got to lose by dropping us a line? If you are looking to start your next adventure with us, or you have questions, email steven@Leadingout.net.

Don’t forget you can also get in touch on Facebook and Instagram, or leave us your thoughts in the comments below.