UNDERSTAND WHERE YOU ARE GOING (4) GENERAL LIVING NEED (B)

THOUGHTS FOR PRESERVICE AND BEGINNING TEACHERS (48)

Too many teachers and others go to live and work in remote communities. It is only once there, they find out about living and working conditions. You need to know before you go, not once you get there! Check the following (continued).

Is home (and school) maintenance the prerogative of the local community or are contractors flown in to handle these issues.

In terms of communication, is internet available and reliable. Is there satellite coverage for communication and television. Are there costs to be borne by tenants or users for access.

Be aware of banking and postal facilities. It can help to make contact with a preferred bank or credit society before leaving on appointment. In particular, check on the availability, reliability and cost of ATM services.

Are homes secured by the use of crimsafe, door locking devices and CCTV in an ‘any’, ‘some’ or ‘none of these’ contexts.

What is the community history in terms of break-ins to homes and school during the past five years. Has there been an increase or decrease in security breaches.

Are homes and the school compound secured.

Is the community ‘wet’ or ‘dry’ in terms of alcohol. Are there substance abuse issues.