The professional experience component of our programs represent an important opportunity for you to engage in new learning and to develop aspects of the teaching standards which are best learnt in the workplace.

As you move through your degree you will complete at least three professional experience placements. This equates to approximately 90 days of supervised professional experience in relevant school settings.

You are also encouraged to take advantage of ongoing volunteer placement opportunities, a strong alumni network and an engaging online platform.

• SimTeach - Teach online avatars in a virtual classroom to enhance confidence and improve your instructional skills.
• Ed Outreach - Enjoy experience-based learning and benefit from Ed Outreach community experiences from your first year of study.
• Career Connect – Career Connect gives you the tools to prepare for your transition into the workforce and the confidence to connect with future employers.

Application and Approval

There are a number of compulsory steps which you must complete before you are allocated a placement. These steps include:

1. NSW Working with Children Check
2. Child Protection Awareness Induction Training
3. Child Protection update training (yearly update)
4. Anaphylaxis training
5. Declaration for Child-Related Work – Tertiary Practicum Students
6. Literacy and Numeracy Test for Initial Teacher Education Students

It is important to note that some of these steps may incur an additional cost and must be completed before you are allocated a placement.

All Education placements are managed in the SONIA system, which is used to record all student work placements across the university.

Professional Experience Handbook

The Professional Experience Handbook provides guidelines and procedures for students enrolled in professional experience courses, who have been allocated a placement host site. Students are encouraged to refer to this handbook for general information about their placements.

Professional Experience Handbook (PDF, 927KB)

SONIA

SONIA is The University of Newcastle’s placement management system. The software supports you in managing your placement quickly and easily.

Log into SONIA using your student login details and select ‘School of Education’ to find relevant information to your placement. For any enquiries related to SONIA, contact the Professional Experience Unit for the College of Human and Social Futures (peu@newcastle.edu.au).

Insurance

Students who are on approved unpaid workplace experience are covered for personal accident and public liability insurance under university insurance. Students should contact the University’s Insurance Team (insurance@newcastle.edu.au) for further clarification if required.