Conference a must for every beginning teacher

JOSH GOLLAN writes about the benefits of attending a Beginning Teachers Conference.

As a teacher mentor at Moree Secondary College and a member of the New Educators Network, I have attended the past four Lightning Ridge Beginning Teacher conferences. As a participant and presenter at these courses I have experienced the benefits of participating in such courses. Creating networks with other beginning teachers experiencing similar issues is a great way to solve problems as a collective. Sitting down and having time to give each other advice and exchange resources builds beginning teachers' confidence to face these issues in their own schools. The conferences also provide beginning teachers with information about how the Federation can help them and professionally develop their skills in areas such as programming and assessment, accreditation, resource development, legal issues and working conditions. As the Federation works closely with other organisations including the Department of Education, the information presented is both accurate and credible.

With the formalities of the sessions complete, the fun continues with trivia over dinner and numerous refreshments consumed into the early hours of Sunday morning. Once the heads have cleared and the much needed breakfast is devoured the second day sessions start. Sunday concludes with a lunch and get-together before all participants make their weary way home. Overall the Conferences have proven to be fun, informative and a must for every beginning teacher.

Dates

Bundanoon: March 17-18
Uralla: March 31-April 1
Lightning Ridge: May 26-27
Maitland: June 16-17
Corowa (Riverina): July 28-29
Bundanoon -- September 8-9

Josh Gollan is a Project Officer.

A wonderful opportunity

For further information

February 2007 contents