We recently shared an article on research exploring teacher readiness, attributes and qualities from the perspective of principals. One of the study recommendations was closer collaboration between university- and school-based mentors as a way of better preparing new teachers as they transition from the lecture hall to the classroom.
Closer collaboration is something the Association of Independent Schools New South Wales (AISNSW) has also recognised a need for – leading to the creation of its School Hubs Program.
Bridging the gap
‘The goal is to bridge the gap between university education and practical teaching experience,’ Chief Executive at the AISNSW, Margery Evans, tells Teacher. ‘Our aim is to ensure new teachers are well-prepared for the classroom in an Independent school environment.’
The program, which began last year, sees independent schools in New South Wales, South Australia, and the Australian Capital Territory working with Initial Education Students from partner universities. Students work one (or more) days a week at one of the hub schools for a full school year, and under the guidance of a mentor teacher from the school.
‘A significant part of [the education trainees’] experience involves shadowing their Mentor Teachers to gain insights into effective teaching practices and classroom management,’ Evans explains. ‘This is complemented by opportunities to collaborate with their mentors on goal setting, lesson planning and execution, ensuring a well-rounded practical experience bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application.’
Input from school leaders
The initial idea for the program came from school leaders, who expressed concerns to the AISNSW around staffing needs – something that can be particularly difficult during times of teacher shortages.
‘School leaders expressed a need for better-prepared new teachers who could integrate smoothly into the Independent school environment … [the program creates] a pipeline of qualified teachers who are already familiar with the school's culture and practices,’ Evans says.
Addressing staffing needs isn’t the only benefit of the program.
Teachers that decide to take on a mentorship role get to expand their skillset and engage in meaningful PD that can further their own careers and better their teaching practice. The program also offers plenty of support to these Mentor Teachers – including self-paced online professional learning courses and access to a community of peers and experts, ensuring they are supported on their own leadership journey.
‘Mentor Teachers have found significant value in the reflective process and the professional growth that comes from mentoring,’ Evans adds.
Initial education trainees also get experience that allows them to feel more confident and comfortable when they do shift from university to work, whether that ends up being with the partner school or not. ‘[From the feedback we’ve had] education trainees have appreciated the ongoing support and the opportunity to integrate into the school community.’
Expanding the program
The positive feedback and initial success of the program means that AISNSW are looking to continue growing it, including more partner universities and schools.
‘The next phase … involves a collaboration with Independent Schools Queensland to expand the program across NSW, ACT, and into Queensland,’ Evans shares.
As part of that, the AISNSW plans to continue refining the program to further develop the training and support mechanisms for both trainees and mentors.
Adapting to a new school environment can be challenging, especially for beginning teachers. How does your school support teachers as they familiarise themselves with the school’s culture, practices and policies?
Providing opportunities for staff to learn and grow is key for staff retention. As a school leader, what professional development opportunities do you offer staff?
Partnerships with other schools, universities, organisations and community groups can be a great way to offer your staff and students unique opportunities. Does you school make the most of partnerships?
Independent schools and trainee teachers interested in joining the School Hubs Program can find further information on the AISNSW website.
