Practical experience
All courses that lead to an accredited qualification to teach in schools include practical experience or teaching practicum component.
Practical experience is an important component of all undergraduate and postgraduate teaching courses. Teaching is a professional discipline and student teachers need the opportunity to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to become effective practitioners. Practical experience involves teaching in schools and other educational environments. It may also include other duties associated with the teaching profession.
The number of days required for practical experience depends on the course in which you enrol (eg Graduate Diploma courses require 45 days of supervised teaching practice, Undergraduate Education courses require 80 days.) Students on teaching practice will be supervised by a qualified teacher.
All placements in schools and other educational settings will be organised by Faculty’s Placement Office. If you have a special request please contact the Placement Office after enrolment. On no account should you directly approach schools/centres to arrange their own placement unless it is a requirement of the placement or fieldwork.
Field work can also form part of teaching education courses. Field work is experience gained in a particular education setting, which is not assessed by the University. This experience may form part of assessment undertaken in a particular subject. Acceptable field work experience include secondary schools, special schools, school camps and educational facilities at institutions, volunteer work through local council or other recognised agencies.
