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Professional Experience visits

Professional Experience Visits

Benefits

  • For PSTs: Provides structured feedback, encourages self-reflection, and ensures professional growth.
  • For Mentors: Opportunity for support in guiding PSTs.
  • For Schools: Strengthens partnerships with Deakin and enhances the placement experience.
  • For Deakin Staff: Fosters connections with school communities.

Supporting pre-service teachers in placement

Overview

Professional Experience (placement) visits are designed to provide timely support, feedback, and oversight to Pre-Service Teachers (PSTs) during their placement. These visits ensure quality learning experiences, promote reflective practice, and foster strong connections between PSTs, mentors, schools, and Deakin University staff.

Key features

  • Each PST receives at least one visit during their Initial Teacher Education degree.
  • Visits ideally occur in placements of 15 days or longer and are optimally scheduled during a Consolidating placement (mid-degree).
  • Typically scheduled in Week 2 of the placement.

Visit structure

  • A Deakin academic staff member will conduct the visit.
  • The majority of visits will be online, though some may be on-site where required.
  • Visits are generally between the PST and academic staff member, though mentors may be included when appropriate.
  • Discussions during the visit will cover:
  • PST’s progress, including strengths and areas for development.
  • Teaching and learning reflections, with a focus on professional growth.
  • Placement expectations, ensuring alignment with course requirements.
  • Support needs, identifying any challenges and strategies for success.

Additional support

On-demand visits are available for complex placement needs.

Download the fact sheet here.

Last updated:
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