'I do plan to do that in the future, just not the near future': rural professional experience programs and pre-service teacher graduate destination preferences

This study examines pre-service teachers (PSTs) from two Australian universities regarding their involvement in rural professional experience (PE) placements and their potential impact on future career choices. The objective was to gain insight into the diverse teaching and learning experiences PSTs had during their rural PE, and what impact these had on their interest in working in country schools. This paper focuses on findings from urban and rural-based PSTs who undertook rural, regional and remote PE. PSTs reported that these experiences helped them develop rewarding pedagogical approaches and contributed to significant personal and professional growth. They reflected that their growth as a teacher arose from encountering diverse student cohorts, the school cultures they experienced, and the relationships they formed within the school community. However, despite these positive aspects, the PSTs' intentions to pursue employment in rural areas remained diverse and personal. This suggests that while rural PE was highly valued, it was not sufficient to override individual circumstances and preferences when considering rural employment. It also seemed that the experiences may have inadvertently attracted PSTs open to change and adventure who utilised the support of rural mentors and communities, only to ultimately teach in metropolitan schools.