Thinking about becoming a secondary school teacher? The Master of Teaching (Secondary) is designed for people who already hold a degree in another field and are ready to take the next step into education. We spoke with Jon Pembroke about his experience returning to uni, placements, to the support he received along the way.
Why did you turn to teaching?
I was always interested in teaching, but earlier on I didn’t feel ready as I was a bit young and unsure. I chose different avenues at that point. When I had the opportunity to return to uni, I felt more aligned with teaching. I love talking to people and working with kids, so it felt like the right time.
Why did you choose QUT?
I’d studied at QUT before and had a great experience. I knew the campuses were fantastic, and the teaching staff brought real industry experience into the classroom. That familiarity gave me confidence that I’d be supported and challenged in the right ways.
What’s your experience been like with the teaching staff?
The education staff are awesome. When it came to more complex concepts, they supported me and went above and beyond. In workshops and tutorials, they’re approachable, personable and genuinely care about your success. They’ve been pivotal in my journey so far.
How have placements helped you prepare for teaching?
Placements have been a highlight. I’ve learnt a lot in class, but applying that knowledge in real school settings has been incredibly valuable. The amount of learning that happens when you take theory into practice is huge.
What facilities have supported your learning?
QUT has mock classroom setups, similar to Moot Courts in law, where you can practice teaching in a realistic environment. These spaces have desks, whiteboards, projectors and learning materials, so you can run your lesson as if you were in a real school. It really helped me feel prepared before heading out on placement.
Ready to take the next step?
If you’re passionate about working with young people and already hold a degree in another field, the Master of Teaching (Secondary) could be your pathway into a rewarding career in education.
