February saw the launch of Growing Great Teachers 2025 in the Illawarra region. The first session, held at the University of Wollongong’s Innovation Campus, welcomed Year 11 and 12 students from Keira High School and Kanahooka High School to collaborate in thought-provoking discussions around empathy-led teaching and pedagogy, whilst discovering what area of teaching they enjoy most and how to pursue their own education goals.
The cohort joined workshops in reflective practice, strength-spotting and welcomed guests from the University who were moved by curiosity and capability of the future educators in the room.
These students will be the third annual cohort from the region to embark on Creating Chances’ 20-month Teacher Cadet program, where students will get a taste of campus life and classroom teaching well before their tertiary education journey begins.
One student – Lily from Kanahooka High School – was interested in becoming an English Teacher, and thoroughly enjoyed the day’s interactive events and the feedback from Growing Great Teacher program lead, Mark Busby.
“I’m excited to start my journey as a Teacher Cadet and see what type of teacher I will be. I loved coaching the primary school kids through the Creating Chances Coach program so I’m keen to get into the schools and get some experience, because I think I’ll really enjoy it.”
Our Teacher Cadets program provides a pathway for students into teaching. It is a long-term strategy in collaboration with the Department of Education leadership team, principals, teachers, and universities to inspire and support high school students in pursuing a career in teaching.
Students are afforded a range of real life, on the job experience well before they get to partaking in ‘pracs’ as part of their Teaching degree. This provides exposure and experience to help students understand what teaching looks and feels like before they begin their tertiary studies. Students, including those from Kiera and Kanahooka, will complete up to 80 hours of practical work during High School.
Additionally, our program gives students time on campus to get a feel for what it’s like to be at university and take part in on campus program workshops to familiarise themselves with the environment, like the University of Wollongong Launch Day.
An exciting time ahead whilst we follow the path of these students as they grow into great teachers for the next generation of young Australians.
For more information about our Teacher Cadets program click here, or contact Mark Busby directly: mark@creatingchances.org.au
