How a Master of Education in trauma-aware practice transformed Laurenn’s career

When Laurenn began teaching, she saw firsthand how traditional approaches often failed students living with the impacts of trauma. That experience sparked a passion for change. That experience sparked a passion for change and led her to QUT’s Master of Education (Trauma-Aware Education). From classroom teacher, to driving critical work in consent and respectful relationships education at a system level, we asked Laurenn to share her journey.

Tell us about your current role

I’m a Project Officer in Consent and Respectful Relationships Education at Brisbane Catholic Education. This work is critical because the crossover between trauma and respectful relationships is undeniable. We have a social and ethical imperative to help young people navigate this space, and QUT gave me the confidence and skills to lead that work.

What inspired you to study trauma-aware education?

As a teacher, I was working with a lot of dysregulated kids, and it was really difficult. Once I understood that many were living with the outcomes of complex trauma, everything changed. I wanted to do whatever I could to help. When we start to understand what’s happening in children’s lives, we have this incredible power to make some change, to improve their ability to connect, and allow them to learn and grow in healthy ways. I think it's just a powerful place to be working from.

How did postgraduate study help you in your teaching role?

The course gave me better questions and better strategies. When students were struggling, I was quicker at being able to figure out what was going on so I could meet them where they were. I was also able to support other teachers to help children too and reintegrate them back into learning. By the end of the degree, I had a real plan for change, something tangible I could take back to my school.

What stood out about the degree?

There was a few things that really stood out to me:

• The course itself is so well structured, it builds upon units in a way that allows you to develop important skills first and foremost.
• The support I also received from staff was amazing. They understood the reality of schools and tailored learning to what we’re experiencing right now.
• The flexibility QUT gives you to work your learning around your lifestyle. I started studying my Masters part-time online with some in-person workshops. I then switched to full-time when I took leave from work, so I could really focus on my study and delve into my learning.
• Expert staff - I was also very fortunate that QUT has renowned national and international experts in the field of trauma-aware education too to learn from.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Working at a system level means I can combine two passions, trauma-aware education and respectful relationships education. It’s about creating safer, more connected schools for both students and teachers. I'm currently working on a project in consent and respect for relationships education. It's an to be in exciting space because the crossover between respect for relationships, education and trauma is undeniable.

Any advice for educators considering this course?

Studying trauma-aware education is about resilience and heart. Yes, it’s challenging, but it’s also exciting because you’re part of incredible transformation in schools. You leave with knowledge, skills, and the drive to make a difference.

Ready to make a difference?

If you’re passionate about creating safer, more supportive learning environments, the Master of Education (Trauma-Aware Education) is designed for you. This degree empowers you to understand the impacts of complex trauma and lead trauma-aware practices in your school or early childhood settings.

Interested in trauma-aware education courses at QUT? Explore trauma-aware education course options ranging from 13 weeks to 1-year full time, to start building your expertise in this area today.

Explore the Master of Education (Trauma-Aware Education)