Focus on experience

Principal and VU alumnus Jennifer Abel says the practical placements offered by VU are imperative in the graduate teachers she hires.

“I studied my Master of Education at VU to take the next step into a leadership role. VU gave me a global view of what’s happening in education around the world.

People in my course came from all walks of life, different professions and from all around the world. It all made for a dynamic learning experience.

I became an acting principal of my school soon after completing the course, and am now the principal.

VU's focus on industry experience is of critical importance. It’s so important for students to learn how to work with not only the children, but their colleagues, and to gain those organisational skills that are only accessible in the classroom.

The first year of teaching is always a challenge. We lose many graduates because they’re just not prepared for the classroom. They need that preparedness that unis like VU offer through practical placements.

I’ve built a good relationship with VU over the years. The students are well prepared for the classroom, they work hard and the follow up from the University is always fantastic.

Other institutions are still teaching traditional methods – but the practical training VU offers can’t be beaten.”

Responding to industry needs

VU's Bachelor of Education (P-12) offers 25 per cent more placement days than required by the Victorian Institute of Teaching.

What you can study

• Bachelor of Education (P-12)
• Bachelor of Early Childhood Education
• Master of Teaching (Secondary Education)
• Master of Education (by coursework)

Graduate success story

Extensive practical placements and industry connections took Joshua Le from the classroom into his dream career as an educator.