Professional development for teachers
One Tree Hill College - involving form teachers in career mentoring
- Form time is used for career mentoring at One Tree Hill College
One Tree Hill College (previously Penrose High School) has introduced a school-wide careers programme for students in Years 9 to 13. The main focus of this programme is to involve form teachers in career mentoring and careers education.
In January 2008, all form teachers and support staff were given professional development on the topic of career mentoring. Teachers were also given a resource box and folder with activities they could use with students during form time.
Key features of the programme
- All students have their own 'Pathways' folder. This holds their individual learning plan for each year, and their careers resources.
- Careers activities are given to students during form time.
- Students are assigned a set time to visit the careers centre during form time.
- One-to-one career mentoring is provided by form teachers.
- Teacher, parent and students meet to discuss students’ learning and career goals.
Benefits for students and the whole school
- Increased use of the careers centre from Year 9 (not just the senior classes).
- Significant reduction in suspensions and early leaving exemptions due to increased focus on learning and career goals.
- More parents attending parent/teacher day and visiting the careers centre.
- Improved student knowledge of their learning record (eg credits they have attained, or credits they need to get a qualification).
- Increased motivation to succeed
