USQ forms partnership with Redbank Plains State High School

Students at Redbank Plains State High School (RPSHS) and the University of Southern Queensland (USQ) Springfield campus will benefit from a new partnership between the two institutions.

Faculty of Education lecturer Dr Janice Stenton said the partnership would ensure that students completing education degrees at USQ were getting the best possible practical experience.

'USQ students completing the new Bachelor of Education (Special Education) program will have the option of attending the RPSHS Secondary Special Education Unit for professional experience,' Dr Stenton said.

'Bachelor of Education students will also have the opportunity to assist students with special needs in the classroom on a voluntary basis from the first year of their studies.'

Dr Stenton said educators at the two institutions would also exchange professional knowledge.

'USQ lecturers will provide professional development seminars for RPSHS teachers and they will guest lecture to our students at the university.

'Special Education is a highly specialised field and the close relationship we are building with RPSHS will provide our students with an opportunity to gain invaluable practical experience.'

Head of Special Education Services at RPSHS Helen Cassimatis said the partnership would be greatly beneficial to students with special needs at the high school.

'Students with special needs require extra support to get through school so having USQ students working in the classroom with us will give the students more one on one attention,' Ms Cassimatis said.

'It will also be a gradual introduction to the classroom for the USQ students.

'It can be very overwhelming for student teachers when they first enter the classroom in a teaching capacity.

'By getting to know the staff and students in a less formal environment, it will ease them into the role.

'We are very excited about the partnership; it will be of great value to our students and students at USQ.'

Media Contact:  Jo-Ann Sparrow, USQ Media, +61 7 3470 4119 or 0428 102 979