Growing teacher workforce in regions

An expanded Bachelor of Education program at La Trobe University’s Mildura campus will help build teacher workforce in the region and support the government to meet its ambitious plan for early years education.

Secondary school students and those keen to explore further study will be welcomed to La Trobe’s Mildura Campus Open Day on Wednesday 10 August to find out more about the new Bachelor of Education offering, as well as a wide range of other courses.

Students seeking certainty in their final years of school will also have an opportunity to discover new pathways into studying at La Trobe, including the University’s Aspire Program.

La Trobe Mildura acting Head of Campus Sandra Connor said it was fantastic to welcome people to campus and help them find the perfect course to fit their ambitions.

“We are so excited to show people around the campus here in Mildura and support school leavers, as well as those returning to study or re-skilling, to find the course and the mode of study that works best for them,” Ms Connor said.

“There are so many ways into university – it’s not just about academic results – and we’re here to support anyone in our community who wants to gain the skills, knowledge and experience to support their future career.”

Dean of the School of Education, Professor Joanna Barbousas, said changes to the Bachelor of Education program will mean more students can study to become teachers, with the choice to specialise in Early Childhood, Primary or Secondary school teaching now being offered – as well as other pathways into teaching such as Diploma and Associate Degree.

“We know that across the country this critical workforce is under strain – and this is particularly being felt in rural and regional areas,” Professor Barbousas said.

“The government has committed to providing more places for children in early years education, and for the first time in Mildura, students will have the opportunity to specialise in Early Childhood and Primary education, providing even more options for those wanting to enter this growing field.”

The Mildura Campus Open Day will be held from 4pm – 7pm on Wednesday 10 August. To register and for more information visit La Trobe’s website.

Highlights of Open Day:

  • Information on the new-look Bachelor of Education program enabling Mildura students to study to become Early Childhood and Primary teachers, helping to address critical workforce shortages in local childcare centres and schools
  • Opportunity to learn about different pathways into a teaching career, including Diploma and Associate Degree
  • Students can find out more about the University’s early conditional offer program, Aspire
  • Open Day gives prospective students a real feel for the campus, opportunities to meet University staff and find out more about university life, and find out more about student support and accommodation
  • Visitors can find out more about scholarships such as the Regional Benefits Program and the Mildura Staff Giving Scholarship

COVID-safe measures will be in place, with free masks available, physical distancing and many activities held outside.

Image (left to right): Laura Oosting, Molly Hall and Sandra Connor

Media contact: Anna Knight - 0481 383 817, a.knight@latrobe.edu.au