Trade to Teach (T2T) with Department of Education (DoE)

Description

A growing demand for workforce development in Industrial Design and Technology teaching has highlighted the need for targeted programs that effectively support tradespeople transitioning into secondary school teaching roles. 

A group of students working with a teacher in a study room on campus

This study investigated the Queensland Department of Education’s Trade to Teach Internship pilot program to determine in what ways it met the learning needs of tradespeople in transitioning to secondary school teaching. Participants identified features of the program that have supported their tertiary study and how the program has helped students in building their confidence as learners. 

Impact Statement

This study provides compelling evidence for the effectiveness of the Trade to Teach Internship pilot program in Queensland, Australia, as a novel and impactful solution to address critical teacher shortages. By successfully transitioning experienced tradespeople into secondary school teaching, the program taps into a valuable and previously underutilised talent pool. The research identifies key program features – including tailored internship matching, targeted support for academic and professional development, and the strategic integration of industry skills – that significantly enhance pre-service teacher self-efficacy and facilitate a smooth transition into the teaching profession. The low attrition rate among interns underscores the program's strong resonance and effectiveness. This study demonstrates the potential of practical, on-the-job learning models to create alternative pathways into teaching, enrich the teaching workforce with real-world expertise, and ultimately improve the quality and relevance of secondary education by bringing diverse industry knowledge into the classroom. The findings offer a significant contribution to policy and practice in teacher education and workforce development, providing a blueprint for other regions seeking innovative solutions to teacher shortages.

Partners

Queensland Department of Education - Trade to Teach Internship Program

Project Lead

Headshot of Dr Corey Bloomfield

Dr Corey Bloomfield is the Lead Researcher for the CREATE cluster, LIFEE - Learning and Innovation for Equity in Education. His research focuses on student engagement, educational transitions, online learning, and equity in education. His research employs qualitative methodologies, including critical ethnography and critical participatory action research (CPAR), to enhance educational outcomes for young people who are often marginalised or labeled as vulnerable learners, particularly those in regional, rural, and remote communities. 

SDG Goals

At CQUniversity we are committed to embedding sustatainble practice in our operations, interatctions and relationships underpinned by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Sustainability is on of our strategic pillars within our Strategic Plan 2024-28.

This project aligned with the following SDG Goals:

  • 4 - Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all