ST HILDA’S EDUCATOR IMMERSION PROGRAM
About the Program
*A paid (one day per week) year long immersion for future educators*
St Hilda's School invites talented university students to become part of a structured employment and professional learning program designed to support aspiring teachers through authentic school-based experiences, mentoring, and professional development while they complete their final year of Teacher Education studies.
Developed by St Hilda's School in consultation with Griffith University, the program is intended to complement participants' university studies by providing opportunities to engage with teaching, learning, and the broader life of a school community under the guidance of experienced educators.
We are seeking high-performing students who are curious, reflective, and committed to learning: students who are eager to explore what teaching involves in practice and who are ready to engage fully in a school community that values learning, wellbeing, and professional growth.
Who Should Apply
This opportunity is open to students enrolled at Griffith University who are in the final 12 to 18 months of an accredited university Initial Teacher Education (ITE) program and who have completed a significant school-based placement. This includes, for example, students in the fourth year of a Bachelor of Education or the second year of a Master of Teaching. Applicants must be entering their final year of study in 2027.
What the Program Involves
As a Scholar at St Hilda's School, you will participate in the Educator Immersion for one day per week (or equivalent) during school term time, working under the guidance of an experienced mentor teacher while continuing your university studies.
Your experiences will be broad and purposeful, and may include:
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Participating in authentic classroom learning experiences alongside experienced educators.
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Supporting the learning and development of students from Pre-Prep through to Year 12.
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Developing your understanding of curriculum, assessment, and evidence-informed teaching practices.
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Observing and contributing to student wellbeing and pastoral care initiatives under appropriate supervision.
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Participating in co-curricular activities, including sport, music, drama, creative and performing arts, boarding, and community programs.
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Developing an understanding of child safety, professional conduct, and duty-of-care responsibilities within a school environment.
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Engaging in professional learning opportunities aligned with school priorities and educational practice.
What You Will Receive
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Paid employment for approximately 222 hours across the academic year (one day per week or equivalent during term time).
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A dedicated mentor teacher for the full year.
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Authentic school-based learning and professional experience across a range of educational settings from Pre-Prep to Year 12.
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Exposure to the full life of a large boarding and day school, including sport, music, drama, pastoral care, boarding, and co-curricular activities.
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Professional learning aligned to school priorities.
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The opportunity to be considered for a professional experience placement at St Hilda's School, subject to Griffith University's placement allocation processes, capacity constraints, and accreditation requirements.
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Opportunities to develop professional networks and connections across the Anglican Schools Commission (ASC) network of schools.
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Eligibility to apply for residential accommodation within the Boarding House community (female applicants), subject to availability and school approval.
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Access to an optional flu vaccination through the staff vaccination program.
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Onsite parking.
Please note: The St Hilda's Educator Immersion is not a Permission to Teach program and does not constitute a Griffith University professional experience placement.
Scholars are not employed as teachers and will not be solely responsible for the supervision or instruction of a class without an appropriately qualified teacher present.
Qualifications and Eligibility Requirements
Prior to commencing the program, all Scholars must have and maintain:
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Current Working with Children Check (Paid Blue Card)
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Current First Aid and CPR qualifications
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Enrolment in the final 12 to 18 months of an accredited university ITE program
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Current unrestricted working rights within Australia
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Any required ASC or school compliance or training
These checks must remain current throughout the duration of the program. It is the Scholar's responsibility to ensure their credentials do not lapse.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit the following:
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A personal statement specifically telling us about your journey to teaching. Why have you chosen to study teaching, and what kind of educator are you hoping to become? What draws you to the St Hilda's Educator Immersion at St Hilda's School specifically?
- Your teaching specialisation and/or area (e.g. early childhood, primary, middle school, senior school).
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A written response addressing each of the four selection criteria (with specific examples and evidence from your university studies, placements, and relevant work or volunteer experience):
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Most recent academic transcripts.
Key Selection Criteria
- Your written responses should demonstrate your capacity to meet the following criteria aligned to the AITSL Australian Professional Standards for Teachers at the Graduate career stage.
1. Academic Achievement and Reflective Practice
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Demonstrated sustained academic achievement in your ITE program, including a strong understanding of pedagogical principles and curriculum theory
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Evidence of an ability to critically reflect on teaching and learning experiences, identify areas for growth, and actively implement feedback to improve practice
2. Commitment to Holistic School Engagement
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Demonstrated interest in and commitment to being immersed in all aspects of school life, including teaching and learning, co-curricular activities, and school events
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A track record of proactively seeking out learning opportunities, showing initiative, and taking on responsibility in practical or professional settings
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Understanding of child safety requirements and the professional obligations of all school employees
3. Interpersonal and Communication Skills
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Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage clearly and professionally with diverse audiences including students, staff and families
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Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively as part of a team, contributing positively and showing respect for others' roles and perspectives
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A high level of professionalism, reliability and ethical behaviour, including an understanding of confidentiality in a school setting
4. Adaptability and Resilience
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Proven ability to adapt to new environments, roles and challenges, showing flexibility and a willingness to embrace change
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Capacity to maintain a positive and professional approach under pressure, demonstrating resilience and effective problem-solving in complex or demanding situations
Key Dates
Applications Open – Monday 01 September 2026
Applications Close – Friday 11 September 2026
Shortlisting and Interviews – 14 – 18 September 2026
Offers Made – 12 – 16 October 2026
Program Starts – Wednesday 27 January 2027
Program Concludes – Thursday 25 November 2027
To obtain a copy of the Information Package or Roles and Responsibilities document please contact [email protected]
Any enquiries should be directed to Majda Benzenati, Head of St Hilda’s Learning Institute at [email protected]
St Hilda's School is an equal opportunity employer.
