When his school was contacted by Monash University with a request to offer practicum experience at a rate of $21.20 a day for the supervising teachers, Riverina Branch President and Holy Spirit Primary Lavington Rep Simon Goss knew something was wrong.
“I knew the Union had been negotiating for 12 to 18 months with universities to establish a fee greater than that,” Simon said.
“This was in consideration of the fact the fee hadn’t changed since the early 90s. “I advised teachers at my school to wait while I contacted the Union, who immediately instigated negotiations with Monash.
“Without the Union support we would not have been able to achieve this change. Prompt member action pays dividends.”
The agreement provides the following rates:
| | Daily Rates
Supervision | |
Coordination |
| 2016 | | $29.25 | | $1.45 |
| 2017 | | $30.00 | | $1.50 |
The agreement also stipulates:
• the importance of a well structured and supported Professional Experience (PE) Program in the development of teacher education students undertaking their initial teacher education course
• that fair and ethical practice in the PE is based on effective information and communication, clear expectations and sound professional judgement
• that a high quality PE Program is dependent on the professional commitment and collaborative efforts of both teachers in schools and the University
• the importance of the development of future teachers and are committed to sustaining and building the quality of teachers’ PE
• schools and school systems have a right to determine the basis upon which they provide and support PE placements in the interests of their schools and of the quality of the profession, and
• initial teacher education providers have a right to determine their enrolments and the structure of their initial teacher education programs.
Interstate universities that make contact with schools or teachers regarding practicum or internship placements may not have signed such agreements and will pay a lesser rate.
It is pleasing to note that Monash University has entered into negotiations with the IEU to pay NSW rates. These negotiations stemmed from member action. The action is relatively simple. Say ‘no’ to universities who refuse to pay NSW rates. Contact the Union should you require further details.
