Secondary
Secondary Professional Experience Program
The University of Western Sydney Secondary Professional Experience Program is integral to the preparation of future teachers enrolled in the Master of Teaching (Secondary). Our induction of Preservice Secondary Teachers into the profession is undertaken through 50 days of supervised practicum within the units Professional Experience 1 and Professional Experience 2. During this induction the School of Education and partner schools work collaboratively to develop Preservice Secondary Teachers skills that enable them to demonstrate the attainment of Graduate Teaching Standards.
Pre-service Secondary Teachers undertake a series of Focus Days during which they orient themselves to their placement schools. During the Focus Day visits Pre-service Secondary Teachers engage in structured learning experiences with the goal of understanding the learning environment and key stakeholders with whom they will interact. Following this period of orientation, Supervising teachers undertake the day-to-day development of Pre-service Secondary Teachers and are supported in this role by the University Advisors who also work closely with the Pre-service Secondary Teachers helping them to articulate and realise the goals of the professional experience.
Throughout Professional Experience 1 and Professional Experience 2 Pre-service Secondary Teachers develop knowledge and skills that are assessed by the Supervising teachers against the New South Wales Professional Teaching Standards and reported on formally. By the conclusion of the second period of Professional Experience Pre-service Secondary Teachers would have demonstrated competence against the seven elements of the NSW Teaching Standards and upon completion of the Master of Teaching (Secondary) can apply for accreditation as a Graduate Teacher in New South Wales as well as other states of Australia.
For more information on the Professional Teaching Standards, please see NSW Institute of Teachers - Professional Teaching Standards (opens in a new window)
Further information about the Secondary Program of Professional Experience can be obtained from the Secondary Professional experience Handbook and Professional Experience Protocols booklets. The booklets can be accessed through the links below.
