Now is the time to pursue further education

For award-winning mathematics teacher Holly, pursuing postgraduate study while working has opened up numerous opportunities to further her career.

After completing her Bachelor in Education (Primary/Secondary) at Southern Cross University (SCU) and securing work at South Grafton High School, Holly decided to continue developing her passion and professional skills through studying a Master of Education.

The flexible online format through SCU has enabled her to continue teaching five days a week, including launching a thriving mathematics enrichment tutoring program, while also working towards her future goal of working in a school leadership role.

“When I left high school, I didn’t really know what I wanted to study so I travelled and worked over a few years decided I wanted to do something that would have a real impact on people’s lives.”

“Growing up I had some incredible teachers who really impacted me and I decided that’s what I wanted to do, so at age 22, I enrolled in the Preparing for Success Program (PSP) at SCU as a pathway to get into university. I studied education and soon after received a permanent role teaching maths and I absolutely love it,”

said Holly, who received a prestigious Learning Edge Teaching Practice Award at Google HQ in Sydney and was named SCU’s 2019 Young Alumna of the Year.

“My Masters degree focusses on student wellbeing and school leadership, and the long-term dream is to become a deputy principal or a principal. I think this whole COVID season has really highlighted the important role of teachers and having strong school leadership.”

Since COVID restrictions began, SCU has seen a dramatic increase in student applications for courses such as education, health and sciences, including people choosing to return to university for graduate study.

Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic) Professor Tyrone Carlin said courses such as the online Master of Education are well-suited for those who decide to pursue a career in teaching after completing a bachelor degree in any field.

“Southern Cross is an industry leader in delivering education online and offering the highest level of one-on-one postgraduate student support, with the option of studying fulltime, or taking it part-time to slot in alongside other work and life commitments, with six start dates a year,” he said.