Originally from Auckland, New Zealand, Rachael was looking for a meaningful change—something that would challenge her both personally and professionally. When she came across an ad for a teaching job in Alice Springs, something clicked.
“The way the role was described just spoke to me,” she recalls. “That moment sparked the idea of teaching in an Indigenous school in Australia.”
After turning down several offers across the country, Rachael received a call from the Acting Principal of Titjikala School. The warmth and positivity she heard about the children and community sealed the decision. “I just knew I’d found the right school.”
Since moving to Titjikala, Rachael has embraced remote teaching wholeheartedly. She’s adapted her classroom practices, learned local languages, and built deep connections with her students. “I felt like a beginning teacher all over again at first. But I’ve learnt so much how to be flexible, how to manage uncertainty, how to truly listen and appreciate culture.”
From making bush medicine and eating witchety grubs to adopting a local donkey named Priscilla (who once wandered into the student eating area!), Rachael’s had her fair share of “only in the NT” moments. “My whole view of life has changed. I’ve learned what really matters. It’s been a life-changing experience for the better.”
When it comes to wellbeing, Rachael is intentional about balance. She journals, walks in the desert, and takes short getaways to Alice Springs to recharge. “It’s rugged out here but I’ve discovered resilience I didn’t know I had.”
Her advice to teachers considering a move to the Territory?
“Go in with an open heart and a positive, flexible attitude. You’ll be challenged, but you’ll also be rewarded in ways you never imagined.”
