Trainee teachers, including one from Broken Hill, with the Catholic Education Wilcannia-Forbes (CEWF) Teaching Schools Hub met in Forbes for two days of professional learning where they were given the opportunity to observe a lesson at St Laurence’s Parish School.
Eight trainees travelled to Forbes, from Cobar, Balranald, Condobolin, Parkes, Peak Hill, Trundle, and Hillston. One was unable to travel from Broken Hill, however, and joined virtually via Zoom.
The CEWF Teaching Schools Hub is an initiative giving people who have a passion for working with children the opportunity to gain their Bachelor of Education (Primary) without leaving the comfort of their home and community.
The program is a three-way partnership between the University, the local Catholic school and the CEWF Teaching Schools Hub and they are fully supported throughout their study journey by other trainee teachers within the Wilcannia-Forbes Diocese who are on the same path.
Vicki Cavallaro, CEWF Teaching Schools Hub Manager, said what a fabulous couple of days it had been.
“This was the first opportunity the trainees of the CEWF Teaching Schools Hub have had to come together as a group and meet face to face. The participants have become great friends and are supporting each other throughout their journey to become a teacher, with this support being the crux of the success of the program.”
The trainee teachers come together once a week via Zoom to meet and discuss the practical aspects of the role of a teacher in a primary school setting. They also work one day a week in their local Catholic school where they have the opportunity to begin teaching under the supervision of a highly trained mentor.
Laura Kirk, who is completing her School Hub day at St Joseph’s Parish School in Peak Hill said, “the Hub program is a massive opportunity for me and many others in our Wilcannia-Forbes community. It allows me to stay in my local area and not have to relocate, because of the ability to complete the degree online. While working in my local school I gained first-hand classroom experience with the guidance of a mentor.
“Last week, I met with the amazing ladies from all over the diocese who are completing this degree with me face to face. This was a vital and massive learning experience. It allowed us to build relationships with each other, and explore St Laurence’s, where we went on a learning walk and observed some amazing infants teachers. The Hub program is an incredible opportunity for us to learn on the job and better prepare for our future teaching careers.”
Ms Cavallaro added, “at the moment, we have a critical shortage of teachers around the country which is only predicted to worsen. Having people who are passionate about working in the profession that are training on the job while they study will produce incredible teachers with a well-rounded education, who are committed to staying in their local communities which are amongst the most remote in our state.”
If you would like information, contact Vicki Cavallaro on 6853 9345 or visit CEWF Teaching Schools Hub under Careers at: https://www.wf.catholic.edu.au/
