A successful initiative is offering final-year education students in Queensland a unique opportunity to gain invaluable classroom experience.
The Pathway2Teach program, supported by the Toowoomba Catholic Schools Office (TCSO) and hosted at St Joseph’s College in Toowoomba, aims to create supportive pathways for teaching students to become future educators.
Recently, St Joseph’s College welcomed two enthusiastic students, Andrew Day from QUT and Kirsty Stocker from UniSQ, who embarked on a 10-week journey within the College’s vibrant professional learning community.
Brendon Willocks, Deputy Principal at St Joseph's College, said he was delighted to welcome Day and Stocker into St Joseph's College's professional learning community.
“By joining the College community these pre-service teachers experienced the three pillars of the Staff Development and Engagement Plan: you belong here, you are valued here, and you can succeed here,” Willocks said.
“These guiding principles foster an environment and culture where all staff can grow, develop and thrive into exceptional educators, setting a strong foundation for Day and Stocker as they prepare for their teaching careers and form their individual teacher identity.”
Day said the Pathway2Teach program has significantly boosted his confidence in teaching.
“The supportive environment has allowed me to explore classroom practices with greater autonomy than in my previous placements,” he said. “My mentor’s constructive feedback has been instrumental in my growth, ensuring I feel well-prepared for my teaching journey.”
Stocker echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the program’s role in bridging the gap between her studies and her future career.
“Throughout this experience, I’ve had the chance to learn classroom teaching practices in a supportive environment. St Joseph’s College has made me feel truly connected to their school, the students and the broader community,” Stocker said.
“Overall, the program has drastically changed my perspective on teaching, leaving me better prepared to enter the workforce with confidence.”
The Pathway2Teach program will run again next year to provide opportunities for our future educators.
The original version of this article was first published by The Diocese of Toowoomba Catholic Schools.