The exact dates for each program period will be published on our website once applications open.

In WA and NSW, the Rural Program runs twice a year at the end of each university semester. The Winter programs usually run in June/July, and Summer programs usually run in November/December.

Each semester TLG runs approximately 25 programs all around rural and remote WA, and approximately 3 programs in rural and remote NSW. In WA the programs run at schools as close as Boddington, down to Nulsen, east to Kalgoorlie and surrounds, and north into communities such as Marble Bar and Wyndham. Many schools we continue to visit every year, however the exact locations are always subject to change, and we regularly have new schools on board!

Rural Program volunteers will tutor students from schools in rural and remote Australia experiencing educational disadvantage. Students will generally be primary school-aged.

Our programs range in size based on the schools we visit. Some programs are as small as 4 volunteers, whilst others are as large as 21.

Exactly where you will stay depends on the school you visit. Most programs will stay in a classroom or building of a school they are volunteering at, although some programs will stay in a caravan park or similar. Mattresses and sleeping bags are sometimes provided, although volunteers will often be asked to bring their own inflatable mattress and bedding. Exact information will be provided by your Rural Program Coordinators closer to the program dates.

Rural Program Tutors will attend on training day called Program Launch, in which they will have the opportunity to meet with their group, be walked through a day in the life of a Rural Program Tutor, briefed on TLG policy, and upskilled on tutoring and working with children. Tutors will also attend a half-day interactive training session, where they will refine their tutoring skills through practical sessions at a local primary school.

Rural Program Coordinators will attend a series of three training days, in which they will meet the broader Coordinator group, learn about managing and leading a Tutor group, be briefed on TLG policy, be walked through a day in the life of a Rural Program Coordinator, supported through their various tasks, and upskilled in key capabilities including tutoring support, contingency planning, and budgeting. Coordinators will be in close contact with the Coordinator Support Officers throughout the semester, who will be there to assist in the process and answer any questions or concerns.

The Rural Program is free for all volunteers who currently have, or will be able to obtain, a concession Smartrider. If you are unable to obtain this, you will pay $50 toward your transport fees. Additionally, all successful applicants will be charged a $100 deposit upon acceptance of a position on our programs, however you will receive the full value returned to you upon completion of the program and any subsequent tasks if you adhere to all requirements of the Volunteer Agreement.

All applicants will need to submit a written application via our website prior to the application deadline. We will then review these applications and shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend an interview. If you are a recent, returning volunteer you may not be required to attend an interview, and will instead be provided an offer based on your volunteer history and online application.

Applicants who are invited to interview will participate in one interview which is split into an individual and group component. Following interviews, applicants will then be advised whether they have been successful in their application for the Rural Program.

Whilst we wish we could accept all of our passionate applicants, unfortunately places on the Rural Programs are limited, and the recruitment process is competitive.

As a TLG volunteer you will need to currently have, or be willing and able to obtain, a Working With Children Check in the state that you will be volunteering.