High Achieving Teachers program

Who is eligible to apply?

The program is open to graduates and final year students who hold a non-teaching degree and want to switch careers to teaching.

Applicants must be domestic students, including Australian citizens or Australian permanent residents.

To be eligible:

• You'll need to have achieved strong undergraduate results.
• Your academic background can be in a range of fields, including Mathematics, English, Science, Humanities and Social Sciences.

And as success in the classroom is as much about how you communicate as it is about what you communicate, your application must include a personal statement from you.

There will also be an interview with the HAT@ECU team.

Student teacher leading a classroom of students.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• What happens each year of the program?

  Year 1

  Begins with an induction and orientation program at your hub school, where you’ll establish connections with staff, students, and the community. Following this, you’ll engage in an accelerated core curriculum that covers Initial Teacher Education (ITE) content alongside early professional experiences.

  During Terms 1 and 2, you’ll participate in observational and practical learning, including your first professional experience placement, to strengthen your teaching skills.

  In Terms 3 and 4, you’ll continue with ITE training while transitioning to paid employment with Limited Registration within schools at a rate of 0.4 FTE (Full-Time Equivalent).

  Year 2

  Your engagement in schools increases to 0.6–0.8 FTE, working in your hub school three to four days per week. This term-based teaching experience is complemented by additional ITE coursework, professional learning, and intensive blocks that support your growth as an educator.

• Can I study part-time in the HAT@ECU program?

  No, the program is a full-time course. The course structure is designed with set units that align with the program’s employment-based model, ensuring a strong integration of study, professional experience, and paid work in your Hub School.

• What undergraduate results do I need to be eligible?

  You must have achieved a minimum course WAM of 70 (or equivalent) in your bachelor degree and/or equivalent industry experience.

• How much will I be paid under the program?

  Upon entering the HAT@ECU program, you’ll receive a $15,000 scholarship in your first year, followed by an additional $3,000 scholarship in your second year.

  In Year 1, you’ll have the opportunity to work up to two days per week (0.4 FTE) in paid employment at your Hub School during Terms 3 and 4.

  In Year 2, your paid employment increases to up to four days per week (0.6–0.8 FTE) during Terms 1, 2, and 3 while you continue your studies. After graduating at the end of Term 3, you’ll transition to full-time employment (1.0 FTE) in Term 4.

• Am I eligible to receive a Commonwealth Teaching Scholarship if I'm accepted on the HAT@ECU program?

  Short answer: no, you can't receive both. As a student, we encourage you to apply for both scholarships, but if successful, you can only accept one. You cannot receive a Commonwealth Teaching Scholarship while participating in the HAT@ECU program.

• What kind of undergraduate studies do I need to apply?

  This depends on which Master of Teaching you’re applying for.

  • Early Childhood or Primary Education – You can have an undergraduate qualification in any field.
  • Secondary Education – Your degree should be in Mathematics, English, Science, or Humanities and Social Sciences.
• When do applications open and close?

  Applications for the next intake will open shortly. To stay informed, please click the ‘Enquire’ button and complete the form to receive updates and further information about the program.

• Where will I study if I’m accepted into the program?

  Your coursework will be delivered primarily online with scheduled in-person sessions on campus or synchronous online teaching and touchpoints.

  At the same time, you’ll gain hands-on experience in a Hub School, where you’ll be mentored by experienced educators, ensuring a strong connection between theory and practice.

• Being placed in a school at the start of the program sounds a bit scary. What help will I get?

  Short answer: plenty! You’ll be supported every step of the way by a dedicated team, including Hub Coordinators, mentor teachers, and student support officers—all committed to your success. This team provides academic support, pastoral care, and professional guidance, ensuring you have the resources and encouragement needed to thrive.

  In addition to in-school mentoring, you’ll be backed by the HAT@ECU team and ECU academic staff. You will also have access to targeted professional learning opportunities, including ECU short courses designed specifically for teachers.

• How are students assigned to Hub Schools?

  HAT@ECU partners with a range of public, Catholic, and independent Hub Schools across the Perth metropolitan and South West regions. Your placement will be determined based on the specific needs of the schools and the location that is most convenient for you, whether that’s your residence or another area that best suits your needs.