Nexus Program transforms teacher education

First published at Shaping Australia Awards by La Trobe University

The Nexus Program offers a unique employment-based pathway that is making a significant difference to teacher shortages in hard-to-staff schools in metropolitan, regional and rural geographic locations.  

The program gives professionals transitioning from different careers the opportunity to gain practical experience in a school environment while completing their masters of teaching degree. The program’s place-based approach prepares and mentors teaching candidates for economically, culturally diverse and high-needs schools across Victoria.

From their very first year, Nexus Program students work in classrooms while receiving mentoring and professional development opportunities. This hands-on experience ensures that Nexus graduates are not only classroom-ready but also equipped with the skills, experience and confidence necessary to make a real difference and significant impact in the classroom.  

A key factor in the program’s success is the strong collaboration between the university, schools and local communities. This partnership has led to remarkable outcomes with 86 per cent of Nexus graduates choosing and securing employment in low SES secondary schools across Victoria.