When Ricky transitioned from primary classroom teacher to inclusion support teacher, he quickly realised that passion alone wasn’t enough, he needed deeper knowledge and skills to truly support students with diverse learning needs. That’s what led him to postgraduate study at QUT. We asked Ricky how the Master of Education (Inclusive Education) helped him grow his practice and make a real impact in the classroom.
What is your current role?
I’m currently working as an inclusion support teacher, helping students with diverse learning needs access the curriculum and achieve their best academically, socially, and in every other way. I’m really passionate about this work.
When I say ‘diverse learning needs’, I mean students who have learning difficulties and require reasonable adjustments to succeed in their learning.
What challenges have you seen in schools?
At a certain point in my career, I realised how many students in rural areas had diverse learning needs but limited support. Collaboration became essential, including consultation with teams, professionals, and students. Student voice was especially important, but resources were scarce.
After returning to Brisbane, I taught in primary schools for a few more years and saw the same pattern. Many students had diverse learning needs and required targeted support.
Why postgraduate study?
I started as an inclusion teacher and my first year went well. I used strategies from my classroom teaching experience, like co-teaching and supporting other teachers. But I realised there were areas of my practice that needed improvement.
It was hard to learn everything on the job, so I returned to study to build the knowledge and skills I needed in my inclusion role. I wanted to make a real impact, so I committed to working and studying at the same time.
Why did you choose QUT?
It’s a fantastic course. Every unit is thoughtfully designed and connects directly to what happens in the classroom. I was able to apply what I learned straight away, which helped me upskill and better support my students, especially those with diverse needs.
I can’t speak highly enough of the course. It gave me the knowledge and skills I needed to grow, especially when I transitioned from a classroom teacher into an inclusion support role.
Which units made the biggest impact?
Every unit has value, but the core units in the inclusive education specialisation were especially beneficial. The reading and writing difficulties unit gave me practical strategies to support students with learning challenges.
Also the multi-tiered system of support unit helped me understand how to use that framework to design adjustments and support every student effectively.
What is the support like at QUT?
Every academic expert I’ve spoken to has been generous with their time and thoughtful in their responses. They are always helping me reflect, answer complex questions, and offering practical solutions. They’re open, supportive, and genuinely invested in helping us grow.
How has your personal experience shaped your practice?
Growing up with a disability and navigating school, I’ve faced challenges but I’ve also found success in my career. Now, I want to support students and show them that success is possible, no matter the obstacles.
I understand the frustration that comes with communication barriers, and that’s why I work hard to reflect on how I can best support students through thoughtful strategies and adjustments that help them achieve their best.
Why did you choose to go into teaching?
After graduating high school, I completed a trade and worked as a chef in the hospitality industry. I began teaching apprentices cookery skills and discovered how important that was to me. But with the fast-paced nature of the industry, there wasn’t enough time to focus on teaching. That’s when I realised my passion for education and decided to study a Bachelor of Education at QUT to pursue it further.
What motivated you to move from the kitchen to classroom?
Helping students learn and grow feels so different from working in a fast-paced kitchen. I found it incredibly rewarding to see them engage and build understanding through my teaching. I thought, ‘Wow, this is something I want to keep doing.’
Ready to make a difference?
The Master of Education (Inclusive Education) at QUT is designed for educators who want to deepen their understanding of how to support students with learning difficulties and disabilities in inclusive classrooms. You’ll gain practical strategies, explore current research, and learn how to make meaningful adjustments that help every student succeed.
Explore the course and take the next step in your education journey with postgraduate studies.
Study the Master of Education (Inclusive Education)
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Content creator for QUT Faculty of Creative Industries, Education and Social Justice