What makes a great educator?
We often talk about teacher quality in terms of qualifications, experience, or student results. But a new Australian study is challenging that narrow view, and putting the person behind the profession in focus. Recent research was conducted by Professor Alyson Simpson and Associate Professor Wayne Cotton at the University of Sydney and Dr Rachel White at Western Sydney University (WSU).
Led by Professor Alyson Simpson from the University of Sydney, this world-first research project has identified 50 key indicators of teacher quality. Some of these are professional skills, but many are personal traits that can’t be taught at university or measured by test scores. Think empathy, resilience, integrity, and a strong sense of purpose; qualities that define the heart of effective teaching.
“Teacher quality matters because it enriches the learning experience of students,” said Professor Simpson. “Our study offers an evidence-based framework that can support teacher development from pre-service training through to professional learning in schools.”
Importantly, the study highlights that teaching is more than just delivering curriculum. It’s about who the teacher is, not just what they do.
“We’re looking at the person that the teacher needs to be,” Simpson added. “Some people still believe teaching is a 9-to-3 job with long holidays. But this research shows how complex, demanding, and deeply human the profession really is.”
The findings are published in What’s the Evidence? An Investigation into Teacher Quality, edited by Dr Rachel White and Professor Simpson. The book invites us to think differently about what makes teachers great, shifting the conversation away from student test scores and back to the people shaping classrooms every day.
A three-year study, supported by the NSW Department of Education, included 548 participants, among them teachers, education leaders, and recent graduates. The objective was to ensure future educators are not only prepared for classroom teaching but also endowed with personal strengths that will sustain them throughout their careers.
Dr. White stated, “If we desire exceptional teachers for Australian students, we must consider what we value in our profession. Furthermore, we need to adopt new approaches in how we support and cultivate those qualities.”
Associate Professor Cotton commented, “This research provides a novel evidence base to reform how we prepare and support educators—from university programs to principal development. It is time to move beyond content knowledge and emphasise the personal and relational attributes that constitute outstanding teaching.”
As Professor Simpson put it: “Teachers are highly valued as individuals, yet teaching remains one of the most misunderstood professions. This research offers a new lens to recognise, support and celebrate the people who shape future generations.”
Their research identified traits that impact teacher quality:
- Reflection – deep thinkers who learn from experience
- Resilience – able to work through challenges
- Adaptability – flexible in the face of change
- Motivation – driven to succeed and inspire
- Respect – considerate of their educational community
- Patience – understanding and tolerant
- Clear communication – skilled at explaining ideas
- Collaboration – effective team players
- Ethics – guided by integrity
- Persistence – committed to supporting students over time.
This blog post is adapted from What makes a great teacher? 10 traits that matter by Professor Alyson Simpson and Association Professor Wayne Cotton. https://www.sydney.edu.au/news-opinion/news/2025/05/22/what-makes-a-great-teacher-10-traits-that-matter.html
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