Growing local teachers: placements begin across regional South Australia

Thirty-two aspiring teachers supported by Uni Hub Spencer Gulf start their teaching placements this week, heading into schools across regional South Australia.

The CQUniversity students will be placed at schools throughout Eyre Peninsula, Upper Spencer Gulf, Mid North and Yorke Peninsula. They’ll gain hands-on experience as they work towards their teaching qualifications. Uni Hub Spencer Gulf CEO Richard Horgan said the placements were an important milestone, giving students the chance to put their university studies into practice.

“Teaching placements give students the chance to experience life in a real classroom, working alongside experienced teachers and developing the practical skills they’ll need in their future careers,” Mr Horgan said. “It’s one thing to learn about teaching through university, but being in front of a classroom, working with students and learning from experienced educators is where that knowledge really starts to come together. “These placements help build confidence and give our students a better understanding of what it means to be a teacher.”

Mr Horgan said having 32 students on placement across the region was also a positive sign for the future of the local teaching workforce.

“We know how important it is to develop our own teachers in regional communities, and supporting people to study teaching locally is a big part of that,” he said. “Through Uni Hub, students can complete their university studies while remaining connected to their communities, with access to local study facilities, tutoring and academic support. “We also help students connect with placement opportunities in regional schools, allowing them to gain experience and build relationships with local educators.

“Those connections are valuable, particularly when students begin looking for employment after graduation. We’d love to see more of our graduates go on to teach in schools across our region.”

Mr Horgan wished the students well as they started their placements.

“This is a great opportunity for our students, and I encourage them to make the most of it. Ask questions, learn from the teachers around you and enjoy the experience. “We wish all 32 students the very best over the coming weeks and look forward to hearing about their experiences.

“I also want to thank the schools hosting our students and the supervising teachers who generously give their time, knowledge and support to help develop the next generation of teachers.”

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