Beginning teachers: Conference and the importance of getting involved!

Do you want to know more about the issues that you face as a new or beginning teacher? 
Workload, planning and differentiation demands, temporary to permanent job conversion?  Go to Conference and get involved in making decisions that matter.

At the 2015 Biennial QTU Conference, I was involved in many aspects, from policy debates and training for recruiting new Reps to detailed updates on the Developing Performance Framework (DPF) process.

As a proxy, I voted to pass amendments, heard from influential women in education (including our Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk) and attended events specifically for new educators.

I asked many questions, of everyone, and the response always came with a smile and an easy to understand explanation.  I made friends and connections with teachers from all over the state.

I left Conference feeling more equipped to discuss concerns and opportunities with my principal and teachers at my school.  I am more informed of what is occurring globally and in our state for both primary and secondary education.

My advice to other new educators out there wondering if they should go to Union events - go!  Attend your branch meetings, go to Council and Conference and get involved with the Union in your area.

Ali Coverdale
Woodridge Branch


Queensland Teachers' Journal, Vol 120 No 5, 17 July 2015, p27