Education Officer - GTAC

Overview

Work type: Full time

Salary: Salary not specified

Grade: Classroom Teacher

Occupation: Teacher

Location: Northern Metropolitan

Reference: 1479113

Location Profile

University High School is a large inner-city secondary school, catering to the local area including Parkville, Carlton, North Melbourne and the Melbourne CBD. The school has a rich and proud history of providing outstanding educational opportunities to its unique and diverse local community, which represents a wide range of language, cultural and socio-economic backgrounds. Our students are the heart and soul of our school, and enrolment growth has been rapid over the past five years. In 2025 we have over 1975 students enrolled. All Year 9 students are based at the newly opened Lonsdale St campus for their entire program, and up to 150 Year 11 and 12 students are enrolled in the specialist science program, Elizabeth Blackburn Sciences (EBS). This is a select-entry program, but UHS itself is a neighbourhood, not a select-entry, school. UHS is also the host school for the Gene Technology Access Centre (GTAC), the first of the state-wide Science Centres, which celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2024.

In 2025, the school is in the fourth year of its Strategic Plan and revised leadership structure. This Strategic Plan has had a focus on developing consistent, collaborative and whole-school practices to support strong student-teacher relationships and connection to school; and to enhance student learning growth through responsive and explicit teaching. This has led to the development of new, whole school frameworks for both relationships and engagement (using BSEM and SWBPS) and for teaching and learning.

Students are expected to engage with all aspects of the formal curriculum and recognition is given to both outstanding achievement and to positive participation and improvement. The co-curricular program caters for a wide range of student interests and abilities and student participation at all levels is fostered. Student voice and leadership is embraced within the school and at all levels through a variety of forums.

The school's curriculum encompasses the breadth of Domain learning areas with students undertaking a wide range of subjects. Year 7 and 8 provide a solid foundation in all learning areas; whilst Year 9 students combine a year-long standard curriculum program with opportunities for guided thematic inquiry and community engagement. Students in Years 10-12 access an elective program with a rich choice of subjects including VCE, VCE-VM and VET.

Staff work in collaborative teams through domains, program areas and Professional Learning Communities (PLCs). A wide range of professional development opportunities, in both internal and external contexts, are available to all staff.

Organisation Environment

GTAC is one of the six Science and Mathematics Specialist Centres operated by the Department of Education in Victoria. It is located at The University High School in Parkville.

GTAC's focus is to promote a scientifically literate community and to inspire students to consider studies and careers in STEM. We provide an innovative and collaborative educational environment in which Victorian students experience authentic life sciences through engagement with practicing scientists and contemporary knowledge and technology.

GTAC showcases life science research and careers in the F-10 curricular areas of science, mathematics, digital technologies, and design technologies. We also provide VCE Biology programs in cell and molecular biology including biotechnology, immunology, bioinformatics, evolutionary biology, microbiology, biochemistry, medical and health sciences, and agriculture.

GTAC has a staff of 11 individuals: director, deputy director, 7 education officers, laboratory manager, IT manager and administration officer. This is complemented by casual employment of approximately 60 post graduate students who assume the role of STEM Coaches.

GTAC differs from the usual school environment as we have teachers and students book into our programs from across the state. Every day, new groups of students and teachers arrive at GTAC and are excited at the opportunity to use research grade technologies guided by STEM Coaches. We are very proud of our strong reputation in life STEM education in Victoria.

Selection Criteria

PLEASE NOTE: SELECTION CRITERIA MUST BE ADDRESSED TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS POSITION

SC1 Demonstrated knowledge of STEM curriculum in the life sciences, including the ability to incorporate the teaching of literacy and numeracy skills.

SC2 Demonstrated experience in planning for and implementing high impact teaching strategies, guided by how students learn, and in providing feedback to students.

SC3 Demonstrated experience in using data to inform teaching practice and to evaluate the impact of learning and teaching programs.

SC4 Demonstrated interpersonal and communication skills, including experience in establishing and maintaining collaborative relationships with students, colleagues and the broader school community, to support student learning, agency, wellbeing and engagement.

SC5 Demonstrated behaviours and attitudes consistent with Department values. Demonstrated experience in reflecting upon practice and engaging in professional learning to continually improve the quality of teaching.

SC6 Demonstrated capacity to implement innovative, high quality STEM programs that engage a wide range of student cohorts.

Role

The classroom teacher classification comprises two salary ranges- range 1 and range 2. 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. All classroom teachers may be required to undertake other duties in addition to their rostered teaching duties provided the responsibility is appropriate to the salary range, qualifications, training and experience of the teacher.

Classroom teacher Range 2
Range 2 classroom teachers play a significant role in assisting the school to improve student performance and educational outcomes determined by the school strategic plan and state-wide 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.

Classroom teacher Range 1
The primary focus of the range 1 classroom teacher is on further developing skills and competencies to become an effective classroom practitioner with structured support and guidance from teachers at higher levels and the planning, preparation and teaching of programs to achieve specific student outcomes. These teachers teach a range of students/classes and are accountable for the effective delivery of their programs. Range 1 classroom teachers are skilled teachers who operate under general direction within clear guidelines following established work practices and documented priorities and may have responsibility for the supervision and training of one or more student teachers.

At range 1, teachers participate in the development of school policies and programs and assist in the implementation of school priorities.
The focus of a range 1 classroom teacher is on classroom management, subject content and teaching practice. New entrants to the teaching profession in their initial teaching years receive structured support, mentoring and guidance from teachers at higher levels.

Under guidance, new entrants to the teaching profession will plan and teach student groups in one or more subjects and are expected to participate in induction programs and other professional learning activities that are designed to ensure the integration of curriculum, assessment and pedagogy across the school.

Teachers at range 1 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.

Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities

At GTAC our Education Officers collaborate and share expertise to implement high impact STEM programs. We are looking for an innovative thinker with excellent interpersonal and communication skills who thrives in an energetic and collaborative atmosphere with a growth mindset.

Specific duties and responsibilities include and are not limited to:

GTAC Teaching Class Education Officers contribute to the achievement of key performance indicators and strategic goals of GTAC through:

• Coordinating and collaborating on the design, development, delivery and evaluation of face-to-face programs, STEM outreach kits, and virtual education programs for students and teachers
• Coordinating and collaborating on the development of resources (including online and print media) that showcase innovations in STEM
• Providing expertise in STEM to showcase contemporary Life Sciences skills and careers for primary and secondary students and teachers
• Identifying emerging STEM technologies and practices to grow GTAC capabilities and programs
• Participating in the GTAC Professional Learning Community for continuous improvement of learning outcomes for Victorian students
• Pursuing and providing training in the use of current and emerging STEM technologies
• Pursuing and providing professional learning in STEM education in the life sciences
• Pursuing professional learning in high impact teaching practices and in coordinating teams
• Supporting the GTAC Laboratory Manager to prepare programs for delivery
• Collaborating with scientists and education experts from external organisations for the benefit of the Centre and its programs
• Promoting the innovations emerging from the Centre, including to Centre visitors and at meetings and conferences, and through preparing reports and funding submissions as required
• Evaluating and reporting on GTAC programs and initiatives
• Supporting the development and ongoing training of GTAC education and laboratory staff including casual, volunteer and internship employees
• Assisting in administration procedures to streamline the program delivery process at GTAC

Who May Apply

Teachers currently registered or eligible for registration with the Victorian Institute of Teaching and qualified to teach and/or have demonstrated experience in the curriculum area(s) specified for the position.

EEO AND OHS Commitment

Applicants seeking part-time employment are encouraged to apply for any teaching service position and, if they are the successful candidate, request a reduced time fraction. Such requests will be negotiated on a case-by-case basis and will be subject to the operational requirements of the school.

The Department of Education is committed to the principles of equal opportunity, and diversity and inclusion for all. We value diversity and inclusion in all forms - gender, religion, ethnicity, LGBTIQ+, disability and neurodiversity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are strongly encouraged to apply for roles within the Department. The Department recognises that the provision of family friendly, supportive, safe and harassment free workplaces is essential to high performance and promotes flexible work, diversity and safety across all schools and Department workplaces. It is our policy to provide reasonable adjustments for persons with a disability (see Workplace adjustment guidelines).

Additional support and advice on the recruitment process is available to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islanders from the Koorie Outcomes Division (KOD) via [email protected]

Child Safe Standards

Victorian government schools are child safe environments. Our schools actively promote the safety and wellbeing of all students, and all school staff are committed to protecting students from abuse or harm in the school environment, in accordance with their legal obligations including child safe standards. All schools have a Child Safety Code of Conduct consistent with the department's exemplar available at:

https://www2.education.vic.gov.au/pal/child-safe-standards/policy

DE Values

The department's employees commit to upholding the department's Values: Responsiveness, Integrity, Impartiality, Accountability, Respect, Leadership and Human Rights. The department's Values complement each school's own values and underpin the behaviours the community expects of Victorian public sector employees, including those who work in Victorian Government Schools. Information on the department values is available at:

https://www2.education.vic.gov.au/pal/values-department-vps-school-employees/overview

Other Information

Please ensure that your application includes:

• A written response to each selection criteria (no more than one A4 page per criteria) should be submitted, along with a cover letter, resume and the names and contact details of at least three referees. Please note that the school will want to contact your current or former Principal and/or immediate past employer: please arrange for them to be available as a referee.
• A resume including relevant experience as well as personal details (name, address, email address and contact number)

• All staff employed by the Department and schools have access to a broad range of employment conditions and working arrangements.
• Appointment of successful applicants will be made subject to a satisfactory pre-employment conditions check.
• A probationary period may apply during the first year of employment and induction and support programs provided.
• Detailed information on all terms and conditions of employment is available on the Department's Human Resources website at http://www.education.vic.gov.au/hrweb/Pages/default.aspx

Tertiary qualifications in a STEM-related discipline are required. Experience teaching science, mathematics, digital technologies, design technologies and/or media is desirable.

Applications are to be registered on-line with the Department of Education & Training. Applications are required to list three referees including full contact details.

For more information contact the GTAC Director, Jacinta Duncan, at [email protected] ov.au. Intending applicants should note that this position requires travel outside Melbourne for up to one week during the year.

Conditions of Employment

• All staff employed by the Department and schools have access to a broad range of employment conditions and working arrangements.
• Appointment of successful applicants will be made subject to a satisfactory pre-employment conditions check.
• A probationary period may apply during the first year of employment and induction and support programs provided.
• Detailed information on all terms and conditions of employment is available on the Department's Human Resources website at http://www.education.vic.gov.au/hrweb/Pages/default.aspx

VIT LANTITE

To be eligible for employment, transfer or promotion in the principal or teacher class a person must have provisional or full registration from the Victorian Institute of Teaching. In addition, from 3 August 2020, to be eligible for employment in the principal class or teacher class, a person who graduated from a Victorian Initial Teacher Education program after 1 July 2016, must demonstrate that they have passed the literacy and numeracy test for initial teacher education (LANTITE) requirements. This condition is satisfied where the LANTITE requirement is part of the Victorian Initial Teacher Education program completed by the person.