Teachers back to school in Masters program

Forty-two Rockhampton Grammar School teachers are returning to the classroom at Griffith University as part of their professional development.

This time it’s a virtual classroom as they start a Graduate Certificate or Masters in Education Studies online.

The teachers will study one subject per semester over four years, learning while at work, with each degree costing between $12,000-$18,000 per teacher.

Rockhampton Grammar School principal Dr Phillip Moulds said the school had made the investment with Griffith University as they wanted the best teachers in front of the students.

“The quality of teachers makes a significant difference to the learning outcomes of students. We already have fantastic staff, but now they can become outstanding.”

Griffith University School of Education & Professional Studies head Professor Donna Pendergast said the degree’s focus on the teachers’ needs was a model for improving professional development for all teachers.

“It’s totally integrated, contextual and relevant,’’ she said.

“On a day-to-day basis, the teachers are able to directly work with the reality of their situation and see the benefits immediately. They can take what they learn directly to the classroom.”

The School of Education & Professional Studies offers a suite of postgraduate masters programs ranging from 1.5 to 2 years.