Left to right: ECU pre-service teachers Kelsi Popplewell, Charlotte Russell, Tessa Smith, Olivia Gerritise, Aaliyah Blackford, Kayla Nain, Jasmine Walter, Hannah Iemma, Mollie Burnett, Sandra Smith
Ten Edith Cowan University (ECU) pre-service teachers from early childhood, primary and secondary education were given a first-hand opportunity to experience rural and remote education in Western Australia’s Kimberley region as part of the 2026 On Country Study Tour.
The nine-day trip included visits to Derby District Highschool, Kimberley School of the Air, Holy Rosary Catholic Primary School and One Tree Children's Services.
In addition to the school visits, the tour also included trips to community organisations and local cultural and historical sites where the teachers gained valuable insight into the strengths, opportunities and complexities of teaching and living in rural and remote communities.
ECU's School of Education Executive Dean Professor Caroline Mansfield said the experience fostered professional growth, cultural understanding and community connection.
"It gave the pre-service teachers a deeper appreciation of place-based education, while encouraging future educators to consider careers in rural and remote contexts," she said.
L-R: Pre-service teachers Olivia Gerritise and Aaliyah Blackford outside Holy Rosary Catholic Primary School.
ECU Primary Professional Experience Coordinator and Study Lead Marnie Harris said it is incredibly rewarding to watch pre-service teachers grow in curiosity and understanding as they engage with schools and the broader community.
The pre-service teachers were encouraged throughout the journey to reflect on their experiences, challenge assumptions and consider how their learning will shape their future practice".
"The generosity of the schools, educators and community members who share their knowledge, experience and stories is what makes this tour so impactful," she said.
The vital role of teachers in a rural and remote community
The pre-service teachers at the Kimberley School of the Air.
Teacher workforce shortages remain an issue in rural and remote areas throughout Australia and research has found when pre-service teachers are given an experience of life in these education settings during training, they are more likely to return to them once they have graduated.
The On Country Tour initiative provides pre-service teachers an opportunity to engage with teachers, students and community members, to gain firsthand insight into the critical role educators play both within and beyond the classroom.
Through activities at local youth and recreation centres, the pre-service teachers further engaged with children and young people outside the classroom, strengthening their understanding of the close connections between schools, families and communities in rural and remote communities.
A career changing opportunity
Secondary Pre-Service Teacher Tessa Smith said being part of the Study Tour changed the trajectory of not only her career path, but her life.
"I now can't imagine starting my career anywhere else," she said.
Fellow Secondary Pre-Service Teacher Aaliyah Blackford said she learnt more from the study tour than expected, both professionally and personally.
"My time in Derby and the schools gave me invaluable experiences that have shaped the way I think about teaching, learning and building relationships with students," she said.
Ms Harris said the longevity of connections made by students during the tour was enduring.
"We had one of the principals specifically asked about one of the students that attended last year's tour and were willing to offer them a job for next year," she said.
"The opportunities for the students' future career pathways are really strong, and I think it really highlights the importance of building relationships beyond the classroom, in the community, and networking, and the importance of that."
Making it possible
This On Country Study Tour would not have been possible if not for the repeat support of partners including international oil and gas exploration and production company INPEX, Catholic Education Western Australia, the Department of Education, The Shire of Derby/West Kimberley and Broome International Airport.
ECU Development and Alumni Relations Director Susan Schofield said the funding helped cover essential costs such as travel, accommodation and cultural engagement activities.
"ECU is proud to work together with partners like INPEX on this initiative. Their support is giving students an invaluable opportunity to experience culture, community, and connection and to understand the important role they can play in improving education for young people in the Kimberley and other regional areas around WA and beyond," she said.
There are infinite possibilities when it comes to supporting student programs like the On Country Study Tour. ECU welcomes the opportunity to discuss donations that will unlock the impact most important to you. Find out more at giving.ecu.edu.au.
