First year teaching student already has job lined up
Madeline Hannaford grew up surrounded by her aunties who were all teachers and was inspired by a few teachers of her own during her senior high school years. This meant her decision to study teaching was an easy choice, as she knew the career would allow her to share her passion for helping others.
After stepping back from university earlier in life, so she could raise a family, Madeline returned to Western Sydney University to study the new Bachelor of Education (Secondary), a choice which she said was a ‘no brainer’.
“I knew that I would have a great experience and gain the knowledge I needed to get the career I wanted to flourish in,” said Madeline.
The Bachelor of Education (Secondary), launched in July 2024, has been developed specifically to enhance the secondary teaching workforce in Western and South-western Sydney, something Madeline is passionate about.
“In this course, you look more closely at educational practices and psychology and sociology of children which I think is a great experience to have as a teacher,” said Madeline.
“While still gaining knowledge to support your specific teaching areas, I think it is good to place a larger focus on teaching in general and how to enhance those skills and education styles.
“Developing teaching style will help pre-service teachers be well versed in all aspects of education.”
Madeline has already obtained a Teach NSW scholarship, which means once she graduates, she will head straight into a job in a government high school.
Although still in her first year, she knows that the University is already setting her up to succeed in her career.
“The School of Education team are always there to answer questions and ensure that we are prepared for anything including navigating technological use, such as AI, in schools.”
“One of my current subjects goes into the topics of gender and society, which has been really eye opening and great for me to learn more about.
“We have amazing opportunities available to us for volunteer programs, the Future Teachers Network and PASS facilitator opportunities (opens in a new window), to name a few.”
ENDS
29 May 2025
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