Rural Program Teacher – Year 9 in Geelong

Rural Program Teacher – Year 9

Back Creek Farm, Scotsburn

Why Join us?

Christian College Geelong is a thriving, independent Christian school community committed to providing exceptional learning experiences that extend well beyond the traditional classroom.

This is a unique opportunity to teach in one of Australia’s most distinctive educational settings. Based at Back Creek Farm, you will work alongside Year 9 students during a transformational residential experience where learning is hands-on, relationships are authentic, and personal growth is encouraged every day.

As a Rural Program Teacher, you will play a significant role in guiding students as they step beyond their comfort zones, develop resilience, build meaningful relationships, and gain a deeper understanding of themselves, others and the rural environment. This role combines teaching, mentoring, pastoral care and community living within a highly collaborative and values-based team.

About the role

Position: Rural Program Teacher – Year 9

Employment Type: Fixed Term

Employment Period: 21 January 2027 to 17 September 2027

FTE/Time Fraction: 0.8 FTE / 30.4 hours per week

Christian College Geelong is seeking an enthusiastic and relational teacher to join our Back Creek Rural Program team for the 2027 academic year.

Reporting to the Director of Rural Program, the Rural Program Teacher will support the delivery of an immersive residential learning experience for Year 9 students. The successful applicant will combine excellent teaching practice with strong pastoral care skills and a passion for experiential education.

Working closely with students in both formal and informal learning environments, this position requires an educator who can build positive relationships, foster personal growth, encourage teamwork, and contribute to the daily operations and community life of the farm.

The role extends beyond the classroom and involves active participation in the residential program, supporting student wellbeing, overseeing work groups, facilitating activities, and contributing to the unique culture and learning environment that define the Back Creek experience.

Key Responsibilities & Selection Criteria

• Deliver engaging learning experiences that align with the ethos and educational philosophy of Christian College Geelong and the Back Creek Rural Program.
• Foster strong relationships with students and support their personal, social and emotional development.
• Supervise, guide and mentor students within farm work teams and broader residential activities.
• Promote high standards of student behaviour through positive relationship-based practices.
• Contribute to student wellbeing, including supporting health and pastoral care needs.
• Assist with the daily operation and organisation of the Back Creek homestead and residential environment.
• Ensure standards of safety, cleanliness, organisation and hygiene are maintained.
• Facilitate recreational, community-building and evening activities.
• Maintain accurate student records, observations and reports.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues to continuously enhance the effectiveness of the Rural Program.
• Support the Christian mission, values and culture of the College.

The successful applicant will demonstrate:

• A recognised teaching qualification and current Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT) registration.
• Experience in creating engaging and meaningful learning experiences for adolescents.
• Outstanding interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
• A genuine passion for experiential, outdoor or alternative learning environments.
• The ability to mentor, support and inspire young people.
• Strong organisational skills and the capacity to work effectively in a dynamic residential setting.
• The ability to exercise sound judgement, initiative and professionalism.
• A collaborative approach to working within a close-knit team environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• An understanding of, and commitment to, the Christian ethos and values of Christian College Geelong.

Experience in rural education, outdoor education, agriculture, residential programs or youth development will be viewed favourably.

What we offer

• An opportunity to teach in one of Victoria’s most unique and rewarding educational environments.
• A supportive and highly collaborative Rural Program team.
• The chance to make a lasting impact on the lives of young people through transformational learning experiences.
• Professional learning and development opportunities.
• Access to our Employee Assistance Program for wellbeing support.
• Generous tuition fee discounts for employees’ children.
• A values-driven workplace grounded in Christian faith and community.

*To view or download a Position Description, please see below.

About Back Creek Farm

Back Creek Farm provides Year 9 students with a unique residential learning experience focused on personal growth, community living, environmental stewardship and rural life. Through authentic farm-based experiences, shared responsibilities and meaningful challenges, students develop resilience, confidence, initiative and a deeper appreciation for the world around them. Back Creek is a place where young people discover new strengths, build lasting relationships and learn valuable life skills that extend far beyond the classroom.

Child Safe Commitment

Christian College Geelong is committed to the safety, wellbeing, and protection of all children and young people in our care. All applicants are expected to demonstrate an understanding of, and commitment to, child safety standards. The successful applicant will be required to hold a current Working with Children Check and comply with the College’s Child Safety policies and Code of Conduct.

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