Monash University has secured a funding boost from the Victorian Department of Education, as part of the Victorian Government's Placements Plus initiative.
Monash University will facilitate the development and delivery of pre-service teacher placement programs across Melbourne's Specialist Schools, Bass Coast and South Gippsland regions as well as the South East Growth Corridor. The programs offer invaluable experience to pre-service teachers over 2024 and 2025, equipping them with the skills needed to thrive in diverse educational settings.
In order to integrate specialist school placements into Initial Teacher Education programs, Monash University has also partnered with the Principals' Association of Specialist Schools (PASS).
Cameron Peverett, President of PASS and Principal of Lake Colac School, highlighted the significance of the program for the education sector.
"Specialist schools are a vital part of the education system, and having well-prepared graduate teachers is essential for their effective operation," said Mr Peverett.
"This program not only enhances the preparedness of pre-service teachers (PSTs) for the unique challenges of specialist school environments but also ensures that student learning and well-being needs are met. The collaboration between Monash University and specialist schools through this initiative is highly beneficial to all involved—PSTs, the schools, and their future employers."
Hugh McLaughlin, Assistant Principal of Barton Primary School in Cranbourne West, a key region in Melbourne's South-East growth corridor, has emphasised the program's impact on the future of teaching.
"This new pilot program is about ensuring our newest and brightest graduate teachers have the skills and knowledge to support our most vulnerable students," said Mr McLaughlin.
"By partnering with Monash University, we've been able to redesign the placement experience to better prepare pre-service teachers for the challenges they will face in the classroom. This approach not only boosts their confidence but also increases their chances of long-term success in the profession."
Dr Karen Marangio, Director of Professional Experience at Monash University's Faculty of Education, expressed her enthusiasm for the partnerships and the opportunities these provide.
"We are thrilled about these new Placements Plus partnerships. The funding has enabled us to strengthen our relationships with the PASS network and collaborate on tailoring our teacher education programs in the South East growth corridor to include these specialised placement experiences. These placement experiences see our pre-service teachers mentored by expert teachers, which is crucial as they transition into the profession," said Dr Marangio.
The Placements Plus program focuses on equipping pre-service teachers with adaptive strategies that align with the specific behaviour management cultures of their placement schools. Trauma-informed practices and positive behaviour plans are central to the training, ensuring that PSTs are well-prepared to address the diverse needs of their students, particularly in the culturally rich and rapidly expanding South East Growth Corridor and Specialist Schools, with further experiences in the Bass Coast and Gippsland planned.
This initiative not only provides essential hands-on experience for pre-service teachers but also establishes strong early career pathways, laying a robust foundation for future graduate teacher recruitment and retention.
Minister for Education Ben Carroll said the Victorian Government was proud to partner with universities and clusters of government schools to provide Placements Plus programs.
"These Placements Plus partnerships ensure pre-service teachers can strengthen their connection with new peers and school communities while gaining professional development during their placement," said Mr Carroll.
"The program enhances the ability of pre-service teachers to provide students with the world-class education Victoria is known for."
