A successful program that helps teachers learn from each other about best classroom practices has been expanded thanks to almost $5 million in funding from the Albanese Government.
The Quality Teaching Round program developed by the University of Newcastle will be expanded across the country after starting in NSW and following successful trials in Queensland and Victoria.
It involves groups of four teachers observing each other and analysing each other’s teaching practices.
The evidence from the trials has shown that this helps teachers learn from each other and improves outcomes for students.
An additional 1,600 teachers are set to benefit and from Term 3 more early career teachers will be able to access the program.
Quality Teaching Rounds is one part of the National Teacher Workforce Action Plan that Education Ministers agreed to last year to address the national issue of teacher workforce shortages.
Minister for Education Jason Clare said:
“Our teachers are experts at what they do – and who better to learn from than each other. Over a decade of data shows this program works.
“It supports new and experienced teachers, and the evidence shows it helps improve students’ reading and maths.
“In the past nine years, it’s helped more than 4,700 teachers and benefited at least 785,000 students.”
Member for Newcastle, Sharon Claydon said:
“Quality Teaching Rounds, co-created by renowned Laureate Professor Jenny Gore and Dr Julie Bowe from the University of Newcastle is revolutionising teacher professional development.
“This additional funding from the Albanese Government will ensure more teachers benefit from this ground-breaking program, while also further establishing the University of Newcastle as a leader in education and professional development.
“This is a great outcome for teachers, students and our community.”