Australian teachers are being invited to share their experiences and insights into how writing is taught in classrooms nationwide, as part of a landmark new survey by the Primary English Teaching Association Australia (PETAA).
Open from 8 October to 14 November, the National Writing Survey seeks to build a clearer picture of current writing instruction practices – and the conditions that help or hinder student success. The initiative follows PETAA’s 2024 National Teaching of Reading Survey, bringing together two significant national datasets focused on literacy teaching.
While debates around reading instruction have long been supported by research and policy reform, the Australian Education Research Organisation (AERO) has found that studies into writing instruction remain comparatively limited. PETAA’s new survey aims to address that gap, ensuring teachers’ expertise directly informs future educational priorities.
“Research consistently shows that when teachers’ professional expertise informs policy, reforms are more effective,” said Associate Professor Helen Adam, PETAA Board President. “With writing now in the spotlight, this new research will provide the teacher perspective needed to shape practical solutions, ensuring writing is prioritised alongside reading in our national education agenda.”
Listening to teachers on the front line
PETAA CEO Ms Megan Edwards said the organisation hopes to better understand both the strengths and barriers teachers face in teaching writing.
“Strong writing skills are essential for every child, and to improve student success we need to understand what’s being taught and how,” she said. “This survey is about listening to teachers on the front line to identify the supports and conditions that lead to better outcomes for all Australian children.”
The survey forms part of PETAA’s broader literacy advocacy, which also includes the upcoming 2025 Leading with Literacy Conference, themed Teaching Writing: Purpose, Meaning, Pleasure. The event will be held on the Gold Coast and live-streamed nationally on 23–24 October 2025.
Teachers across all year levels are encouraged to participate in the survey at https://forms.gle/aTQoP9GokS3sA2mUA
About PETAA
The Primary English Teaching Association Australia (PETAA) is a national, not-for-profit organisation supporting primary educators to teach English and literacy with expertise and confidence. For over 50 years, PETAA has provided research-based resources, professional learning, publications, and advocacy to more than 45,000 educators across Australia.
