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Giovanna is getting ready for an Australian teaching career

Originally from Argentina, Giovanna is learning all about the Australian education system with a postgraduate teaching degree that’s preparing her to lead.

You were already a teacher in your home country of Argentina. Why did you choose to pursue a Master of Teaching, and why did you want to study in Australia?

My first degree is in English language teaching. I had previously worked in preschool and primary school contexts, as well as with adults, but I wanted to explore more of the secondary school context this time. I think studying a master’s degree that offers lots of insights into how the Australian educational system works and how the teaching of languages works here was quite an asset for me.

ACU is globally ranked for its education degrees. What has been most valuable about your ACU course so far?

Professional placements are such a big thing in this degree. I’ve done two placements so far - my placement was for 15 days and my second one was for 20. Having that experience of being fully immersed in a school context provides the best environment for pre-service teachers to learn about teaching in general – not only how to teach, but about the other things that happen at work such as attending moderation meetings or engaging with other staff members or talking to the head of department about curriculum development and alignment.

When you’re not on placement, what’s the on-campus learning experience like?

The course content has been really varied – we’ve got some teaching units, we’ve got some inclusion and diversity units, we’ve got some units on teaching methodologies and educational psychology and some others on understanding our learners. It’s quite comprehensive in how it’s planned out. I think it complements my knowledge and gives me tools to prepare better for the future. Some of the assessments have also been really helpful in challenging me to do some research and gain a deep understanding of the topics that I’m working with. I feel like that was really enriching.

Australia is facing a massive teaching shortage, which means you’ll be graduating with a really in-demand degree. What sort of opportunities are available to you?

I’m actually already working as an English teacher – I teach English to international students who come to Australia, so it’s directly related to what I’m studying. Once I graduate, there are some exciting opportunities for educators who want to work in regional areas. There’s also the possibility of being sponsored to stay here. I would definitely like to stay in Australia and become an educator here.

Lastly, you’re located on the Brisbane campus, which is one of seven ACU campuses in Australia. Why did you want to study there, and what do you love about it?

Well, I love sunshine, and Brisbane is known for its warm, sunny weather. It’s beautiful here and we have access to beautiful, natural landscapes and beaches and places to go and explore. There are lots of bike trails and that’s a great way to get outdoors. There’s definitely lots of things to do!

ACU is ranked #2 in Australia and #32 in the world for its education degrees¹. Talk to our international student support team to find out where an ACU teaching degree can take you.