Springfield launches professional development forums for educators

Guest speaker Tony Ryan at the Springfield campus Education Commons launch.

More than 55 pre-service teachers and other members of the educational community turned out to celebrate the launch of USQ Education Commons forum series at Springfield campus on the 22 March.

USQ Faculty of Education Lecturer, Ms Nicole Ann Todd said guests included teachers and school leaders from the local Springfield area, Ipswich and as far away as Windaroo Valley.

'The launch was also attended by representatives from local business and government,' Ms Todd said.

'Guests were given the opportunity to network and heard from inspirational guest speaker Tony Ryan.

'Mr Ryan is a well-known international speaker and his presentation gave educators a renewed enthusiasm for their work.

'He discussed where students and teachers may find themselves in the future, the role of technology and how to engage students in the classroom,' Ms Todd said.

The launch was quickly followed by the first Education Commons panel discussion on 29 March with more than 60 USQ education students in attendance.

'The panel discussed ‘Being prepared for professional experience from the school’s perspective’.

'The topic was chosen as direct result of a consultative forum held last year where it was indicated by schools that this would be a relevant subject.

'The panel included Deputy Principal of Jindalee State School, Mr Matthew Heard, Jindalee State School teacher Mrs Natalie School, Kenmore South State School teacher Mrs Melinda Denman and USQ’s Professional Experience Student Relationship Officer Ms Sheryl Williams.

'The next panel will take place in April and will discuss ‘So you want to work in special education?’ with further panels planned throughout the year.'

Schools who would like to become involved in the Education Commons can contact Donna Howard .

Contact Details:
Jo-Ann Sparrow, USQ Media, +61 7 3470 4119 or 0438 309 096