Teacher trainees to take part in innovative new internship program launched with Edith Cowan University

13/7/99
Sixteen teacher trainees, who have successfully completed their final teaching practice, will be back in front of a class next term taking part in an innovative new internship program in schools.
Education Minister Colin Barnett today launched a collaborative initiative with Edith Cowan University, giving students in the final semester of their four year teaching degree an opportunity to make a head start in their careers by undertaking a teaching internship in a Government school.
The 16 students have specialised in either design and technology, home economics, business or computing studies. These teaching areas come under the curriculum learning area of 'technology and enterprise' in which there is a current shortage of teachers Australia-wide.
"I'm delighted to see these students taking this lead in their professional careers, particularly in their areas of expertise which are some of the specialty subjects in secondary schools where more teachers are required," Mr Barnett said.
"Their placement next term will give schools a specially-qualified teacher in this learning area for the rest of the year and upon successfully completing their internship, the students will be offered employment with the Education Department next year.
"For the teachers, the opportunity to use their skills, make a smooth and early transition from university to a teaching career and continue to develop on the job will result in unique and quality learning experiences for both teachers and students."
The 16 trainee teachers will work in one of five country or 11 metropolitan schools from next week. The schools are: Armadale, Northam, Mirrabooka, Swan View, Wanneroo, Mount Lawley, Forrestfield, Ocean Reef, Eastern Goldfields and Busselton senior high schools; Geraldton Secondary College; Warnbro Community High School; Ballajura Community College and Kojonup District High School.
Professor Millicent Poole, Edith Cowan University's Vice-Chancellor, said that allowing final year teacher trainees to teach within the controlled internship program would better prepare education graduates for the demands of the modern classroom.
All students have completed the required core units for their teaching qualification. Students will finish their elective units by studying a research technology and enterprise unit in the second semester during their teaching.
The internship receives academic standing as an elective and the final two units will be completed during Edith Cowan University's Summer School program.
The participants will receive full salary at the initial three year-qualified rate and holiday pay on a pro-rata basis while completing their final two units at summer school.
"This initiative provides students with extended practise in their fourth year, within the support and guidance of both the Education Department and the university," Professor Poole said.
Students will receive individual guidance and advice through an assigned mentor within their school. Edith Cowan University will provide specialist education staff to visit participants in the schools throughout the internship period.
"All participants in the program will also be linked through an electronic communication network which will provide support and act as a medium for students to talk to each other and share ideas and experiences," Professor Poole said.
It's expected that the internship program will also operate next year.
Media contact: Justine Whittome, Minister's office, (08) 9222 9699