More than 300 new teachers will be qualified to lead classrooms in 2025, thanks to Curtin University’s one-year Graduate Diploma in Education program.
In response to Western Australia’s teaching shortage, Curtin took a leadership role by reintroducing a Graduate Diploma in Education in 2024, allowing graduates with a relevant Bachelor’s degree an intensive, fast-track pathway to meet the requirements to become a registered teacher.
In its first year, the course will produce 340 graduates qualified to teach in WA primary and secondary schools.
Head of Curtin’s School of Education, Professor Jeff Brooks said Curtin had taken the lead in addressing the critical need for more primary and secondary teachers in WA.
“The teacher shortage is having a major impact on Western Australian schools and families,” Professor Brooks said.
“Adding hundreds of teachers to the workforce in just 12 months is a great example of Curtin’s strong industry ties and flexibility.
“We heard our schools’ call for more teachers as soon as possible and have provided an agile response to help them address the challenges they’re facing.”
Professor Brooks said preliminary enrolment numbers indicated the course would create even more qualified teachers over the next year.
“The Graduate Diploma of Education will continue to add even more qualified and classroom ready graduates to the teaching pool — at a time of immense need.”
With primary or secondary teaching pathways Curtin Diploma of Education students get the opportunity for hands-on experience during their studies with 45 days spent learning in the workplace, split over three placements.
“In 2025, the Curtin School of Education is celebrating its milestone 50th anniversary,” Professor Brooks said.
“Curtin has offered innovative programs in teaching and learning since 1975, with an inaugural cohort of 46 students, the School has grown to more than 4500 enrolments and serves every Australian state and territory.
“Our staff and students have been leaders in developing theories and practices aimed at preparing highly skilled, knowledgeable graduates equipped to teach and work in a fast-changing world.”
The Graduate Diploma in Education is part of the Curtin School of Education’s comprehensive range of offerings, which also include the Bachelor of Education at Early Childhood, Primary and Secondary levels, and a post graduate Master of Teaching.
