Expressions of interest sought for Academic Mentors in the TFA Program

Multiple casual positions available in VIC (metro, regional & rural)

Academic Level A, Increment 2 $59.61/hr

About the role:

The Master of Teaching (Secondary) (Leading Learning) (MTSLL) is a postgraduate program delivered by the National School of Education at ACU in partnership with Teach For Australia. This innovative program enables high-achieving Associates to teach in secondary schools while completing their studies, blending academic coursework with practical classroom experience. Academic Mentors are central to this model, providing academic guidance, observing and assessing classroom practice, and offering constructive feedback through reports and ongoing dialogue. Their support helps Associates successfully navigate the demands of teaching and study, develop strong professional practice, and graduate as confident educators ready to lead in their field.

Locations: Warrnambool, Portland, Heywood, Ararat, Horsham, Mildura, Pyramid Hill, Nathalia, Numurkah, Cobram, Shepparton, Rutherglen, Beechworth, Euroa, Alexandra, Mansfield, Warragul, Drouin, Newborough, Traralgon, Sale, Maffra.

Responsibilities:

Assess and report on Associates' classroom practice by completing and uploading professional experience reports and providing constructive feedback.

Monitor Associates' academic progress to ensure timely completion of the program and identify any risks early.

Support Associates in understanding and applying the Graduate Professional Standards for Teachers through guidance on evidence and annotations.

Identify and immediately inform the Regional Lead of any Associates who may be academically at risk.

Discuss professional practice concerns with Associates and escalate issues to the Regional Lead, following the 'at risk' process when required.

Track completion of critical tasks, unit assessments, and the Graduate Teacher Performance Assessment (GTPA) to maintain program compliance.

Coordinate regular support meetings within a Community of Practice (CoP) model in collaboration with the Regional Lead to enhance Associate development and progress.

Visit first-year Associates up to five times annually (including virtual visits) and second-year Associates at least once to provide in-person support.

Maintain regular communication with first-year Associates and provide on-demand support for second-year Associates to address emerging needs.

Collaborate with the Regional Lead and other external stakeholders to ensure consistent, high-quality mentoring aligned with program objectives.

You will need to have:

Hold a recognised teaching qualification and current registration (or eligibility) within the relevant state/territory teaching authority with relevant leadership or mentoring/coaching experience.

Current Working With Children Check (or jurisdictional equivalent) and compliance with all relevant child safety requirements.

Minimum of five years' experience teaching in secondary schools, demonstrating strong classroom practice and leadership.

Proven experience in mentoring, coaching, or supporting early career teachers to develop professional practice.

Sound knowledge of curriculum, assessment, and the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers, with the ability to guide Associates in meeting these standards.

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build positive relationships and provide constructive feedback.

Strong organisational and time management skills, including the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet reporting deadlines.

Knowledge of the Teach For Australia program and/or experience working in diverse school contexts (highly desirable).

Applicants should demonstrate awareness of the University's Mission and Catholic ethos and demonstrate an understanding of how this role serves the Mission

Applicants should demonstrate commitment to cultural diversity and ethical practice principles and demonstrate knowledge of equal employment opportunity and workplace health and safety, appropriate to the level of the appointment

The University pursues an excellence agenda and offers an environment where staff are welcomed and safe, and valued through development, participation and involvement.

How to Apply:

To lodge your Expression of Interest, please click the 'Apply' button and attach a brief 1-2 page cover letter indicating your relevant experience and skills, and lists your contact details. Please also upload your CV (inclusive of the qualifications you hold). Click here for further information on casual employment at ACU.

Applications close: 16-NOV-2025 at 11:59pm AUS Eastern Standard Time

General enquiries can be sent to Cassie Toci, Project Coordinator (TFA) - School Operations, [email protected]

Candidates must hold Australian work rights to apply for this position. For further information visit Immigration and Citizenship(homeaffairs.gov.au)

ACU is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace culture that values diversity and enables our people to reach their potential. This is underpinned by our mission and values, grounded in our respect for all people and the advancement of the common good. In line with our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion we welcome candidates from all backgrounds and lived experiences. ACU is recognised as a Veteran Employment Supporter and veterans are encouraged to apply. ACU offers support for candidates that may require adjustments through the recruitment process. Please contact

Your Privacy of personal information is maintained in accordance with ACU policy. For more details visit: www.acu.edu.au/careers

About ACU:

Australian Catholic University (ACU) is an inclusive community which welcomes students and staff of all beliefs. ACU has over 2,500 staff supporting more than 34,000 students across eight campuses - Ballarat, Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, North Sydney, Strathfield, Blacktown and Rome.

ACU aspires to be a home for our staff, offer the care of a family and develop an academic and professional community. Whatever your faith or culture, and whether you are academic or professional staff, there are many opportunities both for learning and contributing at ACU.

As valued members of our community, all staff members are expected to have an understanding of ACU's mission and values and to demonstrate an active contribution to them.

ACU does not accept candidate applications submitted by external recruitment agencies through the ACU careers website.