Claire Alton
Claire Alton (pictured above) is a student in our Bachelor of Education (Secondary) degree.
“When I left school my goal was to become a clinical psychologist,” says Alton. “But after I completed my Bachelor of Science (Psychology), I decided it wasn’t the right path for me.”
“I really enjoyed the secondary education elective units in my degree and realised I had a passion for education, particularly history, humanities, and psychology,” she says.
La Trobe, says Alton, went the extra mile to help her transition into an education pathway. “I decided to pursue another Bachelor’s degree and specialise in teaching history, humanities, and psychology to secondary students,” she explains.
Alton has completed ten weeks of placement which has given her a taste of life as a teacher. “Being on placement has emphasised the importance of creating safe and inclusive environments that support a range of learners,” she explains.
“I have learned that having a passion for the subjects I teach will help to create a classroom environment where students are excited about learning and growing.”
Helen Pretorius
Helen Pretorius is a student in our Master of Teaching (Secondary) degree, specialising in Visual Arts.
“I have always wanted to teach and the Master of Teaching (Secondary) has allowed me to build on my degree in fine arts from South Africa,” says Pretorius.
Pretorius says the flexibility of the course made it possible for her to pursue her dream of becoming a teacher. “Being able to do the course online and part-time allows me to fit study in with my life as a mum of three,” explains Pretorius.
“The highlight of the course so far has been meeting other students who are also specialising in arts and connecting with them over our shared passion for teaching and art. I also really enjoyed the placement experience – I got a real feel for teaching and it definitely helped that I had an amazing supervising teacher.”
“When I graduate I am looking forward to working in a school that shares the same values as me and becoming part of the education community.”
Kim Rosedale
Kim Rosedale is a student in our Master of Teaching (Secondary) degree.
“After deciding to pursue a career in teaching, choosing to study La Trobe’s Master of Teaching (Secondary) was a real no-brainer. The course has a great reputation for preparing students for the classroom, and the flexibility of online and on-campus learning really suited me and my family commitments,” says Rosedale.
“The quality of teaching has been a real highlight. The lecturers keep us engaged and supported, particularly when what we’re learning is challenging. They inspire me to become the best teacher possible.”
Rosedale was recently awarded a Golden Key Academy International Honour Society Award for academic achievement.
“Receiving the award confirms that I am on the right career path, and I can’t wait to start my dream job as a vocational education teacher.”
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