Frank Colagrossi, Year 7 Teacher, at St Joseph’s School, Tranmere, recently attended a four day professional development experience in Canberra run by educators for educators. 18 teachers representing all states, from all sectors of education, visited 20 cultural institutions and attractions that Canberra has to offer.
Frank appreciated this professional experience which he said can best be described as a personally guided, back-stage pass to iconic venues including Old and New Parliament Houses, the High Court, the National Library, the National Museum, the Australian War Memorial, the National Gallery, the Royal Australian Mint, the National Portrait Gallery and many other educational sites. Frank described the program as “jam-packed” and he found the facilitators inspiring, passionate and informative.
Frank highly recommends the tour for schools currently planning an excursion to the national capital or teachers scouting for ideas for implementing a tour in the future. In recent times, Year 6/7 students and staff from St Joseph’s have attended four trips to Canberra with another planned in late 2016. Frank’s tour enables him to plan a tailor-made trip in conjunction with his principal and the tour operator. ”I feel confident that my recommendations will benefit future trips and maximise the high investment made by the school and parent community to achieve valuable learning outcomes for students,” Frank said.
The cost for teachers and principals from South Australia is $500 and it is held from Friday to Monday inclusive. The tour includes accommodation, transfers, transport in ACT, entry fees and most meals. “Every venue visited provides a comprehensive show bag of resources, lesson plans and information about contact details and web sites linked to the Australian Curriculum, so that authentic learning can be incorporated into your teaching and learning program”, Frank said.
Teachers can register their interest online at megan@ncetp.org.au
Frank can be contacted: fcolagro@stjotran.catholic.edu.au
To find out more about St Joseph’s, Tranmere, plese visit their website
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