Who are the guidelines for?
Initial Teacher Education (ITE) providers, education systems, schools, early childhood settings and teacher regulatory authorities.
Why does quality professional experience matter?
Professional experience is a key component of the ITE curriculum. High-quality professional experience placements provide pre-service teachers with opportunities to develop, practise and demonstrate their ability to teach and manage a classroom/learning environment.
Why were the guidelines developed?
The guidelines were developed by AITSL to supplement the Accreditation Standards and Procedures and support a consistent national approach to professional experience, acknowledging that different settings need flexibility.
The Strong Beginnings Report of the Teacher Education Expert Panel (TEEP report) recommended the development of national guidelines to provide clear expectations and advice for consistent high-quality professional experience, building on the existing resources already being used in some jurisdictions.
Evidence shows that high-quality professional experience means ITE students are more likely to complete ITE, make a successful transition to teaching and stay in teaching for the long term.
High-quality professional experience is underpinned by well-structured programs, ongoing collaboration between key stakeholders, effective communication and support for pre-service teachers and their wellbeing.