Step Up Into Teaching: opening doors to a new generation of teachers | ACU

"The Step Up Into Teaching (SUIT) program with ACU has been a game changer for our senior students. Over the past decade, our partnership with ACU has grown from just a handful of students to over 80 this year. SUIT gives students a genuine taste of Uni life and a head start on their teaching degree by completing two first-year units during school holidays.

Our students consistently rave about the engaging learning environment, inspiring lecturers, and the friendships formed with like-minded peers. Many have told us they wish they could start their degree immediately at ACU! The content, especially on childhood development and psychology, captured their interest, and the support from ACU staff has been outstanding!

The results speak for themselves, with last year’s cohort averaging Distinctions across both units, with exceptional engagement noted by ACU staff.

This inclusive, well-structured program has opened doors for students. Students report that SUIT not only inspires them academically, particularly through engaging content, but also builds confidence, professional networks, and lifelong friendships and educator mentors. The program’s inclusive design ensures accessibility for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and those with additional needs, making it a model of equity in tertiary pathways.

The success of SUIT is a testament to ACU’s dedication and passion for shaping future educators. We are proud to continue this partnership and celebrate its impact on our students’ futures.

This program demonstrates outstanding collaboration, measurable academic success, and life changing impact for our students. SUIT is not just preparing future teachers, it’s shaping confident, connected, and committed educators ready to make a difference."

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Georgina Vega - Partnerships and Pathways Coordinator, Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese

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Participating in the SUIT course at ACU was one of the most enriching and valuable experiences of my educational journey to become a teacher. From the get-go, the course provided a welcoming and supportive environment that deepened my understanding of what it truly means to be a teacher in today’s world. SUIT offered a unique opportunity to immerse myself in university life whilst completing two uni-level education units within a two-week period.

Throughout this two-week intensive course, I was introduced to key concepts in education, including the foundational theories of learning which significantly improved my understanding of a child’s developing mind. This critical knowledge provided me with valuable insight into what it means to be a teacher, assisting in solidifying my decisions to pursue education as a career.

The main aspect of the SUIT course which I appreciated the most was being surrounded by a group of hard working and likeminded peers who shared a genuine passion for teaching. Their support gave me motivation to work my hardest during the two weeks at ACU.

The SUIT course not only provided academic credit for my future studies at ACU, but it also confirmed my commitment to becoming an avid educator, who makes a real difference in students’ lives.

I’m extremely grateful to ACU for running a program that is both academically and personally fulfilling. The SUIT course was a fantastic entryway to the world of teaching and university life, playing a key role in shaping my goals and future."

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Thanos Kingsley - Year 12 student, Parramatta Marist High, Westmead

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"Participating in the Step Up into Teaching Program at ACU has truly been a life changing opportunity for me. It opened my eyes to the incredible world of teaching and gave me both the confidence and the skills to see myself as a future education student.

The program was not only insightful, but also deeply inspiring, providing me with the chance to learn from ACU staff who were full of knowledge, passion, and genuine dedication to shaping the next generation of teachers. Their guidance gave me a clearer understanding of what it means to be an educator. One of the highlights of this program was connecting with so many like-minded people who share the same dream of becoming educators. The sense of community and support was uplifting, and it reassured me that I am part of a network of people striving to make a difference through teaching.

The Step Up into Teaching Program has shown me that it is more than just a learning experience, it is a powerful pathway into the profession. For future students, it is an incredible gateway to explore their passion for education and to take their first steps towards a rewarding and impactful career as a teacher. Step up into teaching has shaped me and like-minded people to become the start of excellent educators! This experience/opportunity is one of the best things that I have had/done for my future, I can't wait to go back and learn how to shape little minds!".

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Shauna- Lee Young (Indigenous)‍