Pros
- Alternative pathway to become a teacher. - Training and support from other teachers and associates. - Assisted scholarship for Master of Teaching
Cons
- Low pay. Pay is often lower than graduate teachers. Pay rates depending on state/territory ($50-$60k). - Burn out. Many associates leave the program early. Retention rates are low. The ACT withdrew from TFA citing low retention rates. NSW does not accept TFA Associates. - Numerous direct reports, managers, assessors etc. Associates have to spend significant time engaging with supervisors from TFA, the partner University, placement schools, and state education authorities. - Poor work life balance. Juggling full time study with part time work and TFA intensives makes it difficult to maintain a work life balance. - Difficultly supporting students. Meeting the complex needs of students in disadvantaged communities is a challenging task when you enter the classroom with minimal training and experience. - Culture. TFA leaders create a cult-like culture. The culture is not for everyone and can be difficult for diverse Associates and Associates with family commitments. - Placement uncertainty. Placements are not confirmed until later in the program. There is no guarantee that you will be placed in a region/state/territory of your choice - Discrimination. TFA partners with non-government schools that are exempt from some provisions of anti-discrimination law. - Controversy. TFA is a controversial program and prospective graduates should do their own research into the effectiveness of TFA and its claims.