OzTREKK - Australian Teachers Colleges

OzTREKK is an application and information centre for Canadian students considering studying at select Australian universities. We’re a Canadian company based in Perth, Ontario, midway between Ottawa and Toronto We offer a wide range of services, and it’s all free for you—we’re paid by the Australian universities, because they recognize that we’re experts in matching what they offer with what Canadian students need. In fact, OzTREKK is the only representative in Canada operated by Australians and Canadians and specializing solely in Australian universities. If you apply to an Australian university through OzTREKK, you’ll benefit from insider knowledge, save time researching, and get all your questions answered. It’s that simple.

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Do you have the gift of teaching?

The Macquarie Master of Teaching Program

If you’re thinking about pursuing a teaching program in Australia, why not consider Macquarie University? This Sydney-based university offers ample opportunity to foster your passion for education.

The university hosted a Master of Teaching webinar on the topic, that acts as a great resource to answer some commonly asked questions. It touches on the course itself and where you can go with this degree. We’ve provided a brief summary of the key points below, for your perusal!

A teaching career is one with strong relational aspects, notes Macquarie educational lecturer, Dr Janet Dutton. So, if you’re after something that involves both challenges and rewards, and the potential to make a difference, then considering a degree in teaching should certainly be on your radar.

Macquarie University has 3 two-year full-time Master of Teaching options for students to consider:

Master of Teaching (Primary)

Master of Teaching (Secondary)

Master of Teaching (Birth to Five)

The primary and secondary programs will include experience in a range of school settings and a large focus on teaching for diversity and inclusion. “Transition to the Profession” events take place throughout the course, to ensure students are ready to go from student to teacher.

Admissions

For students considering the Master of Teaching (Primary), you’ll need to have a completed bachelor degree which contains at least one year of full-time equivalent studies to the primary school curriculum. Students will then look to choose a specialization in their final year, be it in English or in science, technology and mathematics.

If you’re thinking of the Master of Teaching (Secondary), you’ll need to have a completed bachelor degree which includes two teaching areas.

The first teaching area is generally considered your “major,” or an option that you’ve studied for three years, and have completed six semester-long units in. No more that two of these units can be completed at the first-year level, and a minimum of two units will need to be from the third-year level.

For the second teaching area, often referred to as your “minor,” this will be a subject area that has been studied for a minimum of two years, involving four semester-long units with at least two units being from the second year level or above. Postgraduate studies can be considered to meet the teaching area requirements. Feel free to check out 9:16 of the webinar to get a glimpse at the teaching area options available.

Details as to the courses available and requirements meet the NESA requirements, which is the Australian teaching accreditation body. Some additional tasks, deemed as non-academic requirements, will also need to be completed. Students will need to complete the following tasks, as well:

Survey to demonstrate suitability for teaching (this happens when an application is submitted to the university)

Literacy and Numeracy tests (students will need to receive a pass mark on these before they’re able to undergo their final year placement, but isn’t something that’s completed at the application phase)

Teaching Performance Assessment (takes place in the final teaching placement)

Placements

A commonly asked question for students is when will they start teaching? At Macquarie, students can expect placement dates in the first semester. Students will complete a total of 60 days of placement across the duration of the program.

For students intending to return to Canada upon the completion of their teaching degree, they’ll want to be mindful of the required placement days that each province outlines. Depending on where students are looking to return, additional days may need to be arranged.

What Current Students Think

Two current teaching students answered questions on the webinar to help provide insight into the student experience. You can check this out from 12:47! They touch on their highlights, challenges and why they are pursuing a degree in teaching.

Time Stamps

0:00 – Welcome and Intros 1:06 – Dr Janet Dutton Introduction 1:45 – Thinking about teaching? 2:39 – Why become a teacher? 4:13 –  Why Macquarie? 6:15 – What courses are offered? 6:46 – What will you study? 7:38 – Primary: What do I need? 8:15 – Secondary: What do I need? 9:16 – Secondary Teaching Areas 9:5q – Important Recent Developments 11:15 – When do I start teaching? 12:10 – Want more information? Contact details. 12:47 – Current Teaching Student Introductions 15:16 – Highlight of the Master of Teaching so far 28:40 – Why did you choose Macquarie? 34:50 – The course workload 37:15 – Some critical factors for success in teaching 40:01 – What kind of accreditation does each course give you? 41:31 – Can you do the degree online? 45:16 – Employability, are two teaching areas better? (For Secondary) 48:38 – Job skills 50:41 – Unexpected things that have been learned as part of the degree.

If you’d like to get started on an application, the next intake is February 2022.

Macquarie University Teaching Degrees

Program: Master of Teaching (Primary) or (Secondary) or (Birth to Five) Location: Sydney, New South Wales Semester intake: February Duration: 2 years Application deadline: No set deadline, but you're encouraged to apply at least three months before the program starts.

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OzTREKK Ambassadors: Staying motivated at home during COVID-19

Hey everyone, Jennifer here! In case we haven’t met yet, I’ll do a quick recap on who I am: I am currently studying a Master of Teaching (Early Years and Primary) at Monash University‘s Clayton campus.

A fun fact, I have not had any in-person classes yet, so I am fully experiencing the online lesson plans and the changes going on right now!

I was supposed to start my very first placement at a local primary school on April 27. Unfortunately, about a week before my placement was to start, I found out that it had been postponed until July. 🙁

I chose Monash specifically because I was going to get 85 days of placement, 15 days more than other programs I researched. Because of this, the news was incredibly disappointing, especially because I now have a three-week break where I get to hang out at home for that time.

There were definitely a lot of times throughout these three weeks that made it hard to stay motivated. Here are some of the tips and tricks I found helpful, and maybe they can help you too if you are also struggling to stay motivated right now.

#1: Make a list of things that you are looking forward to once restrictions have lifted

Even though this may seem counterproductive, it allows you to see what you have to look forward to in pen and paper, not just in your mind. You can also try to adapt that list to do some of those things at home. For example, if you’re excited about getting drinks with your friends, try a Zoom “happy hour” call with a fun theme. This gives a little change but helps make things feel a bit more normal.

#2: Do research

This helped me a lot, since I didn’t want to feel like I was on a different page when I started my practicum. In a way, this makes it feel like you’re preparing for whatever has been postponed, and it has the added bonus of helping you get one step ahead and be more knowledgeable on the topic, which in my case was the Victorian and Australian curriculum.

#3: Stay busy

Honestly, the main thing I found that helped me was to stay busy. Whether that be through walks and exercise, trying out new recipes, or reading books. This helps keep your mind busy, by giving you less time to focus on what isn’t happening and rather pay attention to what you are currently doing. I’ve lived away from home throughout university, when I studied abroad, and when I worked at Disney World, and this has new normal has honestly been the hardest experience to adapt to.

As hard as it is right now, remember you have people you can turn to, whether that be for a motivational speech, or a friend with an ear to talk to. Everyone is going through this together, and we are all handling it in our own ways. This is the time to try out new hobbies or something else you never have before. Time is on our side, take advantage of that!

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University of Melbourne paces Australia in latest rankings

The University of Melbourne has 40 subject areas ranked in the top 50 in the world, more than any other Australian university, according to the latest QS World University Rankings by Subject.

Melbourne also received a top five global ranking for education, moving up two spots on its 2016 ranking.

The seventh edition of QS Quacquarelli Symonds’s analysis of subject-specific university performance lists the world’s best universities for the study of 46 different subjects.

“As a university community, we are delighted with this recognition for our academics, a recognition that does much to highlight not just their hard work across multiple specialist fields but the quality of their research and teaching output as well,” commented Vice-Chancellor, Professor Glyn Davis.

“This is not just about the institution but the work of a fine academy, and we congratulate them today for their contribution to this result.”

Dean of the Melbourne Graduate School of Education Professor Field Rickards welcomed the high ranking for Education.

“Our consistent placement among the top ten in the world confirms the impact and excellence of our dedicated and talented staff, as well as the quality of our graduates,” Professor Rickards said.

University of Melbourne Master of Teaching

Since 2008, Melbourne’s Master of Teaching has played a significant role in reshaping education through the clinical teaching approach. This is a major departure from traditional teacher education programs and connects university theory, professional knowledge and classroom experience.

Programs: Master of Teaching (Primary or Secondary) Location: Melbourne, Victoria Semester intake: March Duration: 1.5 to 2 years Application deadline: Although there is no strict application deadline for either of these programs, it is recommended that students apply at least three months prior to the program start date.

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JCU’s unique teacher education program

Are you passionate about the education of children? Have you ever considered teaching in rural and remote areas (Canada has lots!)?

James Cook University is Australian’s tropical university. Students who choose to study at JCU are exceptional and eager to become part of a university community that is committed to aiding those who live in remote communities. While JCU is famous for its focus on tropical medicine and environmental sciences, all its courses have an underlying purpose: Marshalling broad intellectual strengths, the university seeks knowledge-based ways to help the world’s tropical regions prosper.

First offered in 2016, the JCU Master of Teaching and Learning (Primary) prepares teachers to critically respond to the challenges of northern Queensland and the Tropics, through a theoretically informed practice-based approach with provision for learning experiences in urban, rural and remote school-community environments.

Read more!

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Griffith teaching graduate Danielle Nash now works at Springwood Central State School following a successful internship. (Photo credit: Griffith University)

Griffith Education Internship framework a model for success

There is more to internships than simply immersing yourself in your chosen industry.

Griffith School of Education and Professional Studies academics Professor Glenn Finger and Dr Paula Jervis-Tracey recently published research in a book titled Teacher Education: Innovation, Intervention and Impact, about the importance of internships in the education industry by designing a conceptual framework that can be adopted by other universities looking to introduce internships.

Their research is based on Griffith’s Employability Framework and reinforces Griffith’s position as a leading university for graduate teacher success and employability.

Each year more than 200 Griffith University teaching students take part in an internship, with approximately 90 per cent of students gaining work in schools after graduating.

This particular research is focused on the Education Internship and strengthening the connections between university and professional learning in schools.

Professor Finger said improving the capability of teachers was crucial to lifting student outcomes and public confidence in teachers.

The Education Internship model at Griffith develops those capabilities needed to be ready to enter the workforce after graduating.

“The Griffith Education Internship, which had its genesis more than 21 years ago, has been scaled up over time to become a mandatory, capstone, advanced professional experience course for all students undertaking the Bachelor of Education (Primary) at Griffith,” Professor Finger said.

Danielle Nash, who graduated in June 2016 with a Bachelor of Education (Primary) took part in her internship at Springwood Central State School and is now employed there.

“The internship was phenomenal and was invaluable especially given I now have full time work straight after graduating,” she said.

Keep reading!

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What can the Land Down Under offer you? Find out this September!

How about internationally recognized, innovative degrees in teacher education, arts, medicine, dentistry, law, physiotherapy, veterinary medicine and more offered at top-ranked universities? Join us at an OzTREKK Fall Study in Australia Fair—and start seeing the world from a different perspective!

It’s that time of year again: there’s a chill in the air and the leaves are beginning to turn. It’s also the time of year when we host our annual OzTREKK Fall Study in Australia Fairs at university campuses across Canada! This year, we will begin our travels in British Columbia, where we will hold our first fair at Simon Fraser University on Thursday, Sept. 22.

Everyone is welcome to attend! No fee and no RSVP!

Don’t miss this great opportunity to learn more about your program of interest offered at Australian universities. Staff will be available to speak to you about your program, the university, your accommodation options, the scholarships available, and so much more! Meet staff and faculty members from the following Australian universities:

Bond University

Griffith University

James Cook University

Macquarie University

Monash University

University of Melbourne

University of Newcastle

University of Queensland

University of Sydney

Simon Fraser University

Date: Thursday, September 22, 2016 Time: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Venue: North Concourse

University of British Columbia

Date: Friday, September 23, 2016 Time: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Venue: Atrium, Level 1

University of Alberta

Date: Monday, September 26, 2016 Time: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Venue: Student Union Building

University of Calgary

Date: Tuesday, September 27, 2016 Time: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Venue: MacEwan Centre

Carleton University

Date: Wednesday, September 28, 2016 Time: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Venue: Grad Fair, University Centre, 4th floor

Queen’s University

Date: Thursday, September 29, 2016 Time: 10:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. Venue: Athletics & Recreation Centre

University of Toronto

Date: Friday, September 30, 2016 Time: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Venue: Hart House

Find out what it’s like to view the world from Down Under!

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MTeach early childhood students enjoy a mathematics class (Photo credit: University of Sydney)

Celebrating the 20th anniversary of Master of Teaching

This year marks the 20th Anniversary of the University of Sydney’s first year of its groundbreaking Master of Teaching (MTeach) degree.

The MTeach is Australia’s first graduate-entry pre-service teacher education course, completed over two years.

To honour the occasion, the Faculty of Education and Social Work will hold a special Conference and Celebratory Dinner for all MTeach graduates on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2016. The current cohort will also be invited.

“The MTeach was designed to foster an innovative, case-based and inquiry approach to teacher education. It aimed to address key issues at the time,” said Professor Robyn Ewing.

“Three core tenets of the degree continue reflective professional practice, collaborative inquiry, criteria-based assessment culminating in a substantive, classroom-based internship.

“The celebration is timely as the faculty undertakes an external review of the degree and considers how it can address future challenges for teachers and education.”

Designed for candidates seeking a teaching qualification, applicants already hold a bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline.

There are specialisations in early childhood, primary education, school counselling, and 13 areas of study within secondary education, including the national priorities of Science and Mathematics.

Master of Teaching (Primary or Secondary) at the University of Sydney

First offered in 1996, the University of Sydney’s Master of Teaching was the first of its kind in Australia, and remains one of the most successful teaching training programs in the nation. The university has an international reputation for excellence. Many of Master of Teaching students are offered full-time employment before completing their degrees. Sydney graduates’ outstanding performance in their profession has contributed to the reputation the program has, in Australia and overseas, for providing leadership and innovation in teacher education.

Program: Master of Teaching (Primary or Secondary) Location: Sydney, New South Wales Semester intake: March Duration: 2 years Application deadline: Candidates are encouraged to apply a minimum of three months prior to the program’s start date.

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Professor Field Rickards, Dean of the Graduate School pictured with the Dean’s Honour List recipients (Photo credit: University of Melbourne)

Melbourne Graduate School of Education celebrates top achievers

The Melbourne Graduate School of Education celebrated the outstanding achievements of staff and students at its annual Awards Evening on May 12.

A full house of guests gathered in the Kwong Lee Dow Building to cheer on this year’s 81 award winners from a broad range of areas and disciplines across research, teaching and engagement.

In his opening address Professor Field Rickards, Dean of the Graduate School, congratulated all of the winners on their superb efforts.

“This is an important annual event and I’m delighted to celebrate the achievements of our most outstanding students and staff,” he said.

“You have all worked incredibly hard and we are proud of you.

“For the fifth year in a row we have been ranked number one in Australia and in the top 10 globally. This places us among the world’s best and is a credit to our exceptional staff, students and graduates, many of whom are here tonight.”

Master of Teaching (Primary) Graduate Anthony Curnow wowed the audience taking home four awards including

The Alice Taylor Scholarship for the most outstanding result in the Master of Teaching

The ACHPER Primary Award for the most outstanding result for the subject Health and Physical Education

The Valerie and Lawrence Kennedy Bursaries for students undertaking a two-week teaching placement in a remote or Indigenous area of Australia or overseas, and

The Dean’s Honours list for the top 2 per cent of students in each year level.

Dr Sophie Rudolph was the proud recipient of the Doctoral Research Prize for her research thesis titled, Diversity and inequality in education, while the Early Abilities Based Learning and Education Support (Early ABLES) Project Team took home the MGSE Engagement Excellence Award.

The evening also included a presentation by Dr Jason Lodge from the Melbourne Centre for the Study of Higher Education on University teaching and changing times. Dr Lodge was also awarded the MGSE Teaching Excellence Award.

The final award for the evening, the MGSE Distinguished Research Career Award, went to Emeritus Professor Patrick Griffin.

Regarded as a true giant of education, Patrick reflected on his 40-plus years in education, saying he wouldn’t have received the award it wasn’t for his ongoing collaborations with other experts.

“This award sounds like it’s an individual award but in reality, I couldn’t have done this research without the help of others,” he said.

“To our graduate teachers in the audience I say, on your own you can achieve very little. But when you collaborate with other teachers and staff members, there’s no limit to what you can do.”

University of Melbourne Master of Teaching

The Melbourne Graduate School of Education (MGSE) is one of 13 Graduate Schools established by the university as part of the Melbourne Model. Graduates enjoy diverse career outcomes in challenging and stimulating settings from education through to the corporate sector. Equipped with transferable skills, including excellent problem solving, communication and organizational skills, University of Melbourne’s graduates are able to move in and around a broad range of industries.

Programs: Master of Teaching (Primary or Secondary) Location: Melbourne, Victoria Semester intake: March Duration: 1.5 to 2 years Application deadline: Although there is no strict application deadline for either of these programs, it is recommended that students apply at least three months prior to the program start date. Doing so will provide students with a sufficient amount of time to complete the assessment and pre-departure process.

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Head of School of Education Professor Merrilyn Goos with (left to right) students Emily Muller, Vishael Narayan, Jordan Duncombe, Eamonn O’Loughlin, Jarrod Golltz, Tessa Hogan and Chelsea Iddon (Photo credit: UQ)

UQ to pay teacher test fees for teacher education students

The University of Queensland will pay literacy and numeracy test fees for its teacher education students for the next three years.

Provost Professor Max Lu said the decision was made last year when plans to introduce literacy and numeracy testing were first announced.

“UQ is committed to the quality of its teacher education graduates and their capacity to make a positive difference to the students they will teach,” he said.

Plans to introduce nationwide literacy and numeracy tests for teacher education students were announced last year and are to be a requirement for all graduating teacher education students this year.

The tests are designed to ensure the quality of teachers entering the workforce.

Professor Lu said the university wanted to ensure current students were not disadvantaged by the addition of the testing fee of $185 per student.

“The university has already set aside funding for the next three years, in the first instance, to pay for its pre-service teachers to sit the literacy and numeracy test.”

Education Minister Senator Simon Birmingham this week confirmed that higher education providers would be permitted to pay for students to sit the tests.

UQ School of Education Head Professor Merrilyn Goos said the university’s commitment to support the students was an important decision.

“High-quality teachers are vital to the future of Queensland, and we look forward to working with the relevant national and state authorities in implementing the tests,” Professor Goos said.

The University of Queensland’s School of Education offers primary and secondary teacher education, with about 400 students graduating each year.

Why study the UQ Master of Teaching (Primary)?

The Master of Teaching (Primary) is a teacher preparation program specifically designed for people with an undergraduate degree to qualify as a primary school teacher in 1.5 years of full-time study. The program is ideal for those looking for a career change or who wish to follow their passion for teaching.

The program consists of periods of on-campus lectures, tutorials and workshops, alternated with blocks of professional placements in schools. Strong emphasis is placed on classroom practice with placements designed to provide opportunity for professional development and learning for growth into the role of beginning teacher. All placements are supported by an expert team of university facilitators, whose role is to liaise, visit, observe practice, and support the pre-service teachers and school-based mentors.

Students will gain the benefits of being taught by national and international award-winning lecturers and will be thoroughly prepared for a career in education through access to the latest innovations in teaching research taking place within UQ’s School of Education.

This program is 1.5 years full time, the equivalent of 2 years (4 semesters) full time, offered intensively over 18 calendar months by using a summer semester.

Program: Master of Teaching (Primary) Location: Brisbane, Queensland Semester intake: February Duration: 1.5 years (18 calendar months) Application deadline: November 15

Entry requirements

successfully completed, at minimum, a three-year undergraduate degree from a recognized university; and

have achieved a 65 percent average or above.

For the Master of Teaching (Primary) program, applicants must meet the necessary prerequisites for two of the following curriculum areas: Arts (including Drama, Dance, Media, Music and Visual Arts); English; Mathematics; Science; History, Geography, Civics; Health and Physical Education; Technology                                                                                

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Monash Education students gain international experience in more countries

Professional placements are an essential part of the Monash Faculty of Education’s suite of teaching degrees, both at the undergraduate and postgraduate level. Monash gives students the chance to gain practical experience during their course by completing professional experience in Australia and overseas.

Sixty days placement is minimum for Master of Teaching and 80 days is the minimum requirement for the Bachelor of Education (Honours) course. Students have the opportunity to gain practical teaching experience within Australia and also internationally.

Students can undertake International Professional Experience as part of their placement program. Monash has added three new countries in 2016—Israel, India and the United Arab Emirates. These are in addition to China, Cook Islands, Hong Kong, Italy, Malaysia and South Africa.

Monash University Master of Teaching

Students in the Monash Faculty of Education learn from leading academics and researchers and have access to the latest teaching and learning technology and student support services.

The Master of Teaching (Primary or Secondary) prepares graduates from a range of disciplines for a career as a school teacher. If you want to take on one of society’s most important, rewarding and challenging roles, Monash University‘s master’s program in primary teaching is ideal for you.

Program: Master of Teaching (Primary or Secondary) Location: Melbourne, Victoria Semester intake: March Duration: 2 years Application deadline: Although there is no strict application deadline for either of these programs, it is recommended that candidates apply at least three months prior to the program start date.                       

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The University of Sydney has a proud history of engagement with Indigenous education and Indigenous Studies (Photo credit: University of Sydney)

A new approach to Indigenous Studies at the University of Sydney

Students enrolled in education degrees at the University of Sydney now have the opportunity to enroll in new Indigenous Studies units of study offered by the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences.

The new Indigenous Studies major was launched at Info Day in 2016 and units of study offered within it will be of particular interest to students wishing to qualify as Aboriginal Studies teachers.

Demonstrating the university’s commitment to Indigenous participation, inter-disciplinary scholarship and cross-cultural dialogue, the new Indigenous Studies major marks a new era in Sydney’s decades-long commitment to Indigenous education and the emergence of Indigenous Studies as an internationally recognised discipline.

The University of Sydney has a proud history of engagement with Indigenous education and Indigenous Studies.

The new Indigenous Studies major has its roots in the Aboriginal Teacher Aides program that began in 1975 and led to the establishment of the Koori Centre in 1992.

The Koori Centre was dedicated to training Indigenous pre-service teachers and over time became central to Education degree programs for Indigenous teachers, many of whom now teach in schools and communities across Australia.

More recently, the Koori Centre developed an Aboriginal Studies Program and established an Indigenous Studies major in the Faculty of Arts in the late 1990s.

“The new Indigenous Studies major is an exciting and significant development in the faculty’s historical commitment to Indigenous Studies,” says Dr Peter Minter, academic coordinator of Indigenous Studies and senior lecturer in the Department of English.

“What sets this major apart is not only its cultural and philosophical integrity, but also how it consolidates Indigenous Studies as a discipline in the faculty.

“It’s a demonstration of Sydney’s commitment to a cutting-edge discipline that has become increasingly visible and internationally consequential in recent years.”

Driven by a new cross-faculty Indigenous Studies Governance Committee, the Indigenous Studies major draws on the experience and expertise of former Koori Centre academics and colleagues from across the university.

Inspired by a commitment to prioritizing Indigenous content, scholarship and voices in a disciplinary framework that is broadly decolonizing, a June 2014 workshop established a set of guiding principles and discipline-led goals for the major, which included commitments to

Indigenous political, economic and cultural integrity and advancement;

Indigenous community integrity, health and well-being;

cultural and environmental sustainability in Indigenous country;

cross-disciplinarity and engagement with Indigenous Studies nationally and internationally;

Faculty and cross-faculty engagement that welcomes the perspectives, expertise and fellowship of non-Indigenous colleagues across the university;

Reconciliation and the enhancement of the cultural competence of students and staff across the University.

Students in this major will learn about the diversity, strength and complexity of Indigenous societies, cultures, knowledges and histories.

They will be taught by leading Indigenous and non-indigenous academics as well as members of the community, enjoying opportunities to engage with contemporary Indigenous life in ways that are culturally informed and respectful.

The teaching program is exciting and innovative, offering students a mix of face-to-face lectures, seminars and hands-on tutorials alongside advanced online modes of teaching and collaboration, not to mention a range of excursions to, for instance, museums, art exhibitions and literary readings.

“In the senior year students can take an advanced directed research project,” Dr Minter says.

“We are encouraging students to think independently and reflect critically in a sphere that is culturally informed and respectful.

“Our students will understand the implications their learning in terms of their own lives and issues that have deeper significance nationally and internationally.”

Master of Teaching (Primary or Secondary)

First offered in 1996, the University of Sydney’s Master of Teaching was the first of its kind in Australia, and remains one of the most successful teaching training programs in the nation. The Primary program is designed for those who wish to teach Kindergarten to Grade 6. The Secondary is designed for those who wish to teach grades 7 though 12.

Program: Master of Teaching (Primary or Secondary) Location: Sydney, New South Wales Semester intake: March Duration: 2 years Application deadline: The University of Sydney has a general application deadline of January 31 each year; however, candidates are encouraged to apply a minimum of three months prior to the program’s start date.

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Upcoming winter OzTREKK Study in Australia Fairs

OzTREKK and our Australian universities will be visiting Canadian universities in Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia—beginning, Saturday, February 6 in Toronto!

From there we’ll move to London, Waterloo, and Hamilton. Then, our Australian university representatives will fly out to Calgary and Vancouver. Don’t miss our winter Study in Australia information sessions! Our Australian representatives come to Canada in order to participate in these events, just to meet with you. This is the place to find out how you can further your studies and ask as many questions as you wish about your programs of interest.

Where will we be?

Toronto

Date: Saturday, February 6, 2016 Time: 1 – 5 p.m. Venue: Hilton, Governor General Main, 145 Richmond St. W., Toronto

Western University

Date: Monday, February 8, 2016 Time: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Venue: University Community Centre (UCC), Atrium 1 & 2, Western University

Wilfrid Laurier University

Date: Monday, February 8, 2016 Time: 5 – 7 p.m. Venue: Concourse, Wilfrid Laurier University

University of Waterloo

Date: Tuesday, February 9, 2016 Time: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Venue: Student Life Centre (SLC), University of Waterloo

McMaster University

Date: Tuesday, February 9, 2016 Time: 4 – 6 p.m. Venue: Room 318, MUSC, McMaster University

University of Alberta

Date: Wednesday, February 10, 2016 Time: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Venue: SUB, University of Alberta

University of Calgary

Date: Thursday, February 11, 2016 Time: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Venue: MacEwan Centre, Tables 205–210, University of Calgary

University of British Columbia

Date: Friday, February 12, 2016 Time: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Venue: AMS, Room 2301, University of British Columbia

Meet with Australian university representatives—in person!

Bond University

Griffith University

James Cook University

Macquarie University

Monash University

University of Melbourne

University of Newcastle

University of Queensland

University of Sydney

Why should you attend?

Since Australian universities only visit a few times a year, this is a must-not-miss event. These Study in Australia Fairs provide a great opportunity to find out what you can do with the degree you have (or will have!). This is the sort of event where you can ask as many questions as you wish! Find out more about the universities, the programs, entry requirements, student loans and financing options, and much more!                         

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Engaging students with science, technology, engineering and mathematics, (STEM) (Image credit: University of Melbourne)

New teacher education program specialising in maths and science adds up

Capturing the mind of the primary school student requires imagination, great skill and specialised teaching.

In the wake of increased pressure on schools to engage students with science, technology, engineering and mathematics, (STEM) a group of universities, led by the University of Melbourne, is rethinking the role of school teachers in these specialist areas.

Reconceptualising Mathematics and Science Teacher Education Programs (ReMSTEP) is a three-year project aiming to deliver new teacher education practices that match contemporary mathematics and science with innovative and engaging teaching practice.

Led by Professor Stephen Dinham within the Melbourne Graduate School of Education and working closely with collaborators at Deakin, Monash and LaTrobe universities, ReMSTEP will immerse pre-service (student) teachers into specialist maths and science training so they can deliver the highest quality teaching to young students.

“We know students’ interest in science and mathematics is declining, but Victoria is leading the charge forward. The best time to really engage with and cultivate a love of maths and science is in the primary classroom,” Professor Dinham said.

“This program will allow us to increase the quality and readiness of graduate teachers, with a focus on the introduction of new science and maths course electives and learning pathways.”

The partnerships and programs will drive major improvements in the quality of mathematics and science learning and teaching by creating programs where undergraduate STEM students and pre-service teachers work collaboratively across faculties and specialist centres to create new materials, units of study and expertise in inquiry-based classroom practices.

Minister for Education The Hon James Merlino said the establishment of ReMSTEP is a significant investment in the future and high-quality learning and teaching is critical for driving practice and policy change.

The Andrews Labor Government recently announced some exciting STEM-related initiatives as part of Education State Reforms. The STEM Catalysts program will build on our existing strengths and train 60 teachers across 30 schools to become STEM ‘catalysts’- experts who can inspire fellow teachers to bring STEM alive for students in Years 7 and 8, he said.

“We also recently announced $27 million for 200 primary maths and science specialists to work with students in over 100 of Victoria’s most disadvantaged primary schools. And our ten new Tech Schools will be high-tech centres of learning excellence right across Victoria.” Minister Merlino said.

The first annual ReMSTEP conference being held in Melbourne will examine the current state of science and mathematics teaching.

University of Melbourne Master of Teaching

The Melbourne Graduate School of Education (MGSE) is one of 13 Graduate Schools established by the university as part of the Melbourne Model. Teacher education graduates enjoy diverse career outcomes in challenging and stimulating settings from education through to the corporate sector. Equipped with transferable skills, including excellent problem solving, communication and organizational skills, graduates are able to move in and around a broad range of industries.

Programs: Master of Teaching (Primary or Secondary) Location: Melbourne, Victoria Semester intake: March Duration: 1.5 to 2 years Application deadline: December 10, 2015                                                     

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Master of Teaching (Primary) at the University of Newcastle

Searching for a rewarding career utilising your communication and leadership skills to help shape the future of our children? Being a primary teacher is one of the most rewarding careers you can have.

Using your existing degree as a foundation, the Master of Teaching (Primary) at the University of Newcastle is a two-year program, producing outstanding graduates ready to enter a rewarding career as a primary teacher.

Throughout the program you will study the six key learning areas of English, Mathematics, Science and Technology, Physical Development, Health and Physical Education, Creative Arts, and Human Society and its Environment. Other areas of study include educational psychology and sociology, using and undertaking research in your classroom, Aboriginal Education and how to teach children with Special Needs.

To effectively prepare you for the job you will undertake 60 days’ formal professional experience in schools, as well as have many opportunities for ongoing contact with the university’s partner schools. At the completion of your Master of Teaching (Primary) you will be prepared to begin your career teaching students from Kindergarten to Year 6.

Program: Master of Teaching (Primary) Location: Newcastle, New South Wales Semester intake: March Duration: 2 years Application deadline: Although there is no strict application deadline for either of these programs, it is recommended that students apply at least three months prior to the program start date. Doing so will provide students with a sufficient amount of time to complete the assessment and pre-departure process.

Entry Requirements

Applicants to the University of Newcastle Master of Teaching must have

at minimum, a three-year undergraduate degree from a recognized university; and

a 65% average or above from their undergraduate degree;

participate in an interview (conducted via Skype).                         

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Griffith University education interns Aaron Cumberlidge, Kylie Hughes and Sarah Corkill (sitting, right) with mentors Professor Glenn Finger and Dr Paula Jervis-Tracey at the Australian College of Educators conference. (Photo credit: Griffith University)

Griffith teacher education internships inspire quality teaching

From imaginary classroom to real life, Sarah Corkill has always been passionate about teaching.

“As a girl, I used to play the role of teacher with a pretend class of students,’’ the Griffith University Bachelor of Primary Education student said.

I want to teach so I can have a positive, lasting impact on a child’s life.”

The 22-year-old has just completed an internship at Southport State School which she says has reinforced her commitment to teaching.

“I learnt to be flexible by adapting daily plans on the go to continue with a lesson where students required more time to work on a new concept.

“The internship built my confidence and I believe this experience will make a smooth transition from an intern to graduate teacher.”

Sarah is one of 234 Griffith University students who will undertake an education internship this year.

“Initial teacher education students develop their professional point of difference in the internship,’’ said Dr Paula Jervis-Tracey from the School of Education & Professional Studies.

“It enables them to make the shift from ‘prac student’ to ‘co-teacher’.”

Dr Jervis-Tracey and Professor Glenn Finger collaboratively inspire the students to achieve their best in the internships.

“Strengthening the connection between university and professional learning in schools is the key to the success of the internships,” Professor Finger added.

The university’s partnership with schools in the region is essential to the success of its teaching graduates, with approximately 90% of 2014 graduates working in schools in Queensland and elsewhere, said Education Dean Professor Donna Pendergast.

“We have a strong relationship with school principals, heads of departments and mentor teachers, all of whom contribute to the ongoing development of our pre-service teachers.

“Initial teacher education sets the foundation for a high-quality teaching workforce and the education internship is crucial to this.”

Queensland College of Teachers Director John Ryan said an internship program was the most valuable part of any initial teacher education program.

“Internships are an excellent way to conclude an initial teacher program because they consolidate and practice knowledge and skills the students have learnt during their study.

“Great teachers are those with good interpersonal skills, who are resilient and willing to learn. They also have a strong understanding of the knowledge that underpins teaching as well as being able to put that knowledge into practice.”

Bachelor of Primary Education student Kylie Hughes has completed her internship at Woodridge Primary School.

“The Internship program was one of the best parts of my degree,’’ she said.

“I learnt how to plan and implement an engaging maths and geography unit, differentiate maths lessons for my students, how to interact with parents and how to assess student work.”

For Bachelor of Primary Education student Aaron Cumberlidge, who has secured a 2016 contract with a Brisbane school, being a teacher is a way to help young people become happy, productive members of society.

“I believe a great teacher needs to be committed to continual professional learning and to implement best-practice pedagogy. My degree has given me the skills and knowledge to enter the teaching profession with confidence.”

Griffith University School of Education and Professional Studies

The School of Education and Professional Studies is one of the largest teaching areas at Griffith University. The school is part of the Faculty of Faculty of Arts, Education & Law, and offers undergraduate, postgraduate and higher degree research for more than 3,500 students.

Building on a 40-year history of teacher preparation, the Griffith School of Education and Professional Studies brings this experience into a dynamic unit that operates across three campuses: Gold Coast, Logan and Mt Gravatt. The school and its staff and students are leaders in teaching and learning in the networked world, utilising innovative technologies and offering flexible program design.

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Professor Donna Pendergast, School of Education & Professional Studies Dean (Photo credit: Griffith University)

The challenge of making great teachers

What makes great teachers?

This is the question Professor Donna Pendergast, Dean, Griffith School of Education and Professional Studies, explored in a public lecture at the Griffith Film School recently.

“There is no single variable that improves student achievement more than a great teacher,’’ she said.

“Great teachers are known to have two key attributes: a well formed professional identity and being self-efficacious—confident and competent—which is the capacity to ensure learning of all students.”

She said schools are intended to prepare students for their future lives but based on what has been seen as successful in the past.

“This is increasingly challenging today where the acceleration of change is the most constant feature.”

Today’s teachers are teaching Generation Z (born 1995–2009), while the Alpha Generation born from 2010 are in child care centres, prep and Year 1.

“In the past, the role of the teacher was to deliver the curriculum and the role of the student was to learn. The teacher used assessment to establish how much the student had learnt.

“Now, teaching has grown as a profession which has a high degree of accountability, is informed by evidence-based practice and subject to professional self-regulation.

“Teachers are expected to use data not just to determine student learning, but to inform, reflect upon, and modify their teaching practice.”

One of the key attributes of a great teacher, she said, is a willingness to undertake professional learning throughout their career.

Adding to the mix, a looming teacher and principal shortage in Queensland and nationally from 2018 will see the demand for teachers fall short of the supply. This will bring its own set of problems.

“The teacher workforce is about to undergo a literal facelift with an influx of mostly Y generation teachers, who will engage in portfolio careers. They are less likely to display the strong loyalty to employers that distinguished previous generations,’’ Professor Pendergast said.

“Keeping teachers in the sector, but potentially providing a range of opportunities related to teaching, will be important work in the decades ahead.

“Selection, education, induction and ongoing professional learning are the tools to ensuring we make great teachers.”

Griffith University Teacher Education Programs

Program: Master of Teaching (Primary) Location: Gold Coast & Brisbane, Queensland Semester intake: January/February Duration: 1.5 years

Program: Graduate Diploma of Education (Secondary) Location: Gold Coast & Brisbane, Queensland Semester intake: January/February Duration: 1 year                      

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Fall Study in Australia Fairs coming soon!

Upcoming OzTREKK Study in Australia Fairs—meet representatives from world-class Australian universities!

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to study in Australia? Would you like more information about studying medicine, dentistry, law, pharmacy, or physiotherapy in Australia?

Each fall, we travel across Canada to meet with Canadian students interested in pursuing their career dreams in Australia. We bring the information to them, making it easy to access the answers needed when considering studies in Australia.

Beginning Wednesday, Sept. 30 in Vancouver, OzTREKK’s Australian universities will be participating in the fairs, sending staff from Australia to Canada to advise students (and their parents!) about their study options in Australia. These fairs are free of charge and everyone is welcome to attend!

Staff will be available to speak to you about program options, accommodation, scholarships available, and so much more! At the fairs, you can find out more about

Australian Medical Schools in Australia

Australian Dental Schools in Australia

Australian Law Schools in Australia

Australian Physiotherapy Schools in Australia

Australian Veterinary Schools in Australia

Australian Pharmacy Schools in Australia

Australian Optometry Schools in Australia

Australian Business Schools in Australia

Australian Occupational Therapy Schools in Australia

Australian Speech Pathology Schools in Australia

Australian Audiology Schools in Australia

and more!

Study in Australia Fair Details

University of British Columbia Dates: Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2015 & Thursday, Oct. 1 Time: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Venue: AMS Student Nest, UBC, Vancouver Map: http://tiny.cc/UBCNest

University of Calgary Date: Friday, Oct. 2 Time: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Venue: MacEwan Conference & Event Centre, University of Calgary Map: http://tiny.cc/MacEwan

Toronto Date: Saturday, Oct. 3, 2015 Time: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Venue: Tom Thompson Room, Hilton Toronto Downtown Map: http://tiny.cc/HiltonToronto

Queen’s University Date: Monday, Oct. 5, 2015 Time: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Venue: JDUC, Queen’s University, Kingston Map: http://tiny.cc/QueensUnis

McGill University Date: Tuesday, Oct. 6 Time: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Venue: Madeleine Parent Room (TBC), SSMU Building, McGill University, Montreal