The University of Canberra (UC) Affiliated Schools Program is an exciting initiative under the Future of Education Strategy designed to improve student learning through professional learning for pre-service and current teachers, and research in schools.
The Program is a partnership between the ACT Government and the University of Canberra – a shared commitment to putting students at the centre of their education journey, supported by a respected and professional teaching workforce with access to innovative research and professional development opportunities.
It includes several elements:
School-based pre-service teacher education clinics
UC academic staff deliver clinics within ACT public schools. These regular sessions see pre-service teachers supported to deliver lessons and activities to students in ACT public schools.
Professional experience placements for pre-service teachers
ACT public schools host pre-service teachers across all subject areas and stages of schooling to provide quality hands on professional experience.
UC facilitated professional learning for teachers
Teachers are given the opportunity to participate in rich, rigorous learning that is tailored to meet the needs of educational professionals. Research informed professional learning is delivered through workshops, master classes and conferences.
‘Action’ school-based research projects to meet school and system needs
Action research is an approach to ‘learning while doing’ that allows teachers to develop and evaluate innovative approaches to meeting the learning needs of students. Research projects are co-designed by UC and ACT public schools to align with school and system strategic priorities. Teachers are supported by academic staff to undertake research. The projects will be widely shared via professional learning, resources, evidence-based programs and other leading initiatives.
Masters scholarships for teachers and school and non-school based leaders
The Directorate is providing scholarships to support teachers, and school and non-school based leaders to undertake the University of Canberra Master of Education. UC has developed a unique approach to post graduate learning to meet the changing needs of the education profession. The Master of Education is an innovative and specially designed program that aligns with the Future of Education Strategy.
Participating schools
The program is being rolled out across ACT public schools. As of December 2019, 26 ACT public schools were involved.
Full Program Schools (incorporating all elements of the program)
- UC Senior Secondary College Lake Ginninderra
- UC High School Kaleen
- Kaleen Primary School
- Maribyrnong Primary School
- Giralang Primary School
- Margaret Hendry School
- Mount Stromlo High School
- Arawang Primary School
- Southern Cross Early Childhood School
- Bonython Primary School
Affiliated schools (incorporating some of the elements)
- Lyneham High School
- Campbell High School
- Ainslie School
- Dickson College
- Alfred Deakin High School
- Amaroo School P-10
- Harrison School P-10
- Black Mountain School
- Lake Tuggeranong College
- Gordon Primary School
- Monash Primary School
- Narrabundah College
- Melrose High School
- Garran Primary School
- Isabella Plains Early Childhood School