Teacher Classification Structure
The Teacher Class structure acknowledges the different phases of a teacher's development and progression. Teachers make a significant difference to the lives and interests of children. An environment where - the contribution that a teacher makes to the education of children and the life of a school is recognised; school expectations are clearly stated; and professional development objectives and priorities are effectively identified - is essential in positively influencing teachers' professional growth and development.
The teacher class comprises the following classifications:
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Teacher Class
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leading teacher
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classroom teacher (expert, accomplished and graduate)
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leading teacher
Leading Teacher
To be classified as leading teacher, a position should have responsibility for the implementation of one or more priorities contained in the school strategic plan. Typically, leading teachers are responsible for coordinating a large number of staff to achieve improvements in teaching and learning. Their focus is on the introduction of changes in methods and approaches to teaching and learning. However, they will also be responsible for the management and leadership of a significant area or function within the school to ensure the effective development, provision and evaluation of the school's education program.
The principal, having regard to the nature of the duties to be performed and the funding available in the school determines the number of leading teacher positions.
Classroom Teacher
Classroom teacher positions are classified within one classification level with three salary ranges - graduate, accomplished and expert.
The primary focus of the classroom teacher is on the planning, preparation and teaching of programs to achieve specific student outcomes. The classroom teacher engages in critical reflection and inquiry in order to improve knowledge and skills to effectively engage students and improve their learning. As the classroom teacher gains experience his or her contribution to the school program beyond the classroom increases.
Expert teachers play a significant role in assisting the school to improve student performance and educational outcomes determined by the school strategic plan and statewide priorities and contributing to the development and implementation of school policies and priorities. A critical component of this work will focus on increasing the knowledge base of staff within their school about student learning and high quality instruction to assist their school to define quality teacher practice.
The primary focus of the accomplished teacher is on the planning, preparation and teaching of programs to achieve specific student outcomes. Accomplished teachers participate in the development of school policies and programs and assist in the implementation of school priorities.
The primary focus of the graduate teacher is on further developing skills and competencies needed to become an effective classroom practitioner with structured support and guidance from teachers at higher levels. Graduate teachers are responsible for teaching their own classes and may also assist and participate in policy development, project teams and the organisation of co-curricula activities.
The principal, having regard to the nature of the duties to be performed and the funding available in the school determines the number of classroom teacher positions a school requires to deliver its educational program.
Roles and Responsibilities
The roles and responsibilities that can be expected of employees at the various classification levels are available by selecting the link under 'Related Topics' below.
Professional Standards
Professional attributes and roles are recognised through professional standards that take into account the complexities of teaching practice and school culture, and the developmental processes that characterise all teachers' progression from a graduate teacher to a highly skilled professional.
These Professional Standards for the teacher class are used in the context of the performance and development arrangements.
Education Support Class | Teachers | Principal Class | Public Service Staff
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Related Topics