Meet the High Achieving Teachers of the Future

High Achieving Teacher’s program, known as HAT@ECU, commences in Semester 1 at Edith Cowan University (ECU) at the Joondalup campus.

The first student cohort is very diverse linked by a common interest in educating, among them are a paediatric nurse, consultant and data scientist, engineer, WAFLW football player, journalist, foster carer, and a disability support worker, to name just a few.

The program is an earn as you learn pathway to a Master of Teaching in either Early Childhood, Primary or Secondary Education.

HAT@ECU is delivered as part of the High Achieving Teachers Program: Phase 2 Expansion Pilots supported by the Australian Government Department of Education.

Unlike existing coursework schedule for these master's degrees, study is structured around the four Western Australian school terms.

During the course, students will be placed in one of the partnership schools - public, Catholic or independent.

“This better aligns with school needs and enhances theory-practice connections. It also makes life easier for our students with school-age children,” HAT@ECU Director Associate Professor Matt Byrne said.

ECU is responsible for delivering more than half of Western Australia's teachers to public schools, however a national shortage remains.

“ECU and the Federal Government are trying to alleviate that in an innovative way,” ECU Executive Dean, Professor Caroline Mansfield said.

“ECU’s first orientation was a resounding success with our HAT@ECU students given the opportunity to familiarise themselves with the program and meet our dedicated teaching staff.

“We are delighted to be the only Western Australian university to offer this program which allows students to earn an income while they study to become a teacher,” Professor Mansfield said.

More information on HAT@ECU can be found on the website.

Image by Eberhard Grossgasteiger