#hands-onteachertraining

[thxnews]

Permit to Teach Program Expands Reach in Australia

In an exciting development for future educators, the ACT Government has expanded its Permit to Teach (PTT) program to include students from Charles Sturt University. This inclusion broadens an already successful initiative, aimed at giving final-year teaching students practical experience in public schools while also providing a substantial salary. Launched in 2023, the PTT program was initially available only to students at the University of Canberra and the Australian Catholic University. Its expansion in 2024 marks a significant step towards enhancing educational quality and addressing teacher shortages across the region.  

Hands-On Experience and Financial Support

Through the PTT program, students in their final year at the University of Canberra, Australian Catholic University, and now Charles Sturt University can earn approximately $75,000 a year while gaining invaluable teaching experience. This opportunity not only supports students financially but also immerses them in real-world educational settings where they can apply their learning in practical contexts. The ACT Teacher Quality Institute (TQI) endorses the program, which also offers up to six weeks of paid placement leave, allowing participants to focus fully on their professional development during their final placement.   A Win-Win for Students and Schools The response to the program has been overwhelmingly positive. In 2023, 61 ITE students took part in the PTT program across ACT public schools, benefiting both the students and the schools. This initiative not only helps mitigate the ongoing national teacher shortage but also enhances the learning environment by integrating fresh perspectives and energy into the classrooms. Education Minister Yvette Berry expressed enthusiasm about the program's growth. "We recognize the crucial role played by our educators in shaping the lives of our city’s young people," Minister Berry stated. She highlighted the dual benefits of the program: providing hands-on experience for future teachers and practical help for schools in need.  

Feedback from the Field

The program's success is echoed in the feedback from participants and school administrators. Brian Downton, principal of Alfred Deakin High School, noted, "We have a number of PTT teachers from last year who have been an outstanding addition to our school." He praised the program for offering a real springboard for teaching success. Catherine Bui, a teacher at Alfred Deakin High School and a 2023 PTT participant, shared her experience: "The PTT program was a great opportunity and privilege to work on my craft while learning the most recent teaching strategies and programs." Her sentiment is a testament to the program's effectiveness in bridging theoretical knowledge with practical teaching applications.   Sources: THX News & ACT. Read the full article