Student Highlights
Taylor took the leap to change careers through her postgraduate study
Taking the leap to change careers might seem a bit daunting to start, but for Master of Teaching (Primary) graduate Taylor, it was a decision that she hasn’t looked back from.
Straight out of high school Taylor studied a Bachelor of Psychology. But in the back of her mind, she always thought that teaching might be for her. After graduating, she travelled to the Netherlands for a psychology summer school program, and it was here that she realised she had to give teaching a go.
“It was during this overseas summer school I decided teaching was what I really wanted to do so I applied for the Master of Teaching. I found out I was accepted, came back to Australia, and started the course straight away.
“The Master of Teaching appealed to me because I could walk away with a teaching degree in half the time. Knowing that I would be studying with people who had already been to uni and had a degree under their belt was also enticing. I also found that employers look favourably on postgraduate studies,” Taylor said.
When it came to fitting her postgraduate degree around work and life, Taylor said the face-to-face delivery of the program, along with supportive teachers helped her manage it.
“The program is designed to help those already working or with a family. I studied full-time and worked part-time and found it very manageable.
“The Faculty are extremely supportive and approachable and as it’s a small cohort, I really got to make some great friendships and future connections.
“My advice to other students would be to try your best to do your postgraduate study face-to-face if you can,” Taylor added.
Taking a chance on a new career path has paid off for Taylor, who now has a full-time permanent position at a local primary school and a job she loves.
“After I graduated, I was successful in landing a 12-month temporary contract which was then followed by a permanent position the year after.
“At the moment I’m really happy in the classroom. I have a great teaching partner and I’m still learning so much about the profession,” Taylor concluded.
`
Taylor Stokes
Taylor Stokes studied a Master of Teaching (Primary) at the University of Newcastle.
The Faculty are extremely supportive and approachable and as it’s a small cohort, I really got to make some great friendships and future connections.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.