Sam Birrell (Nicholls, National Party, Shadow Assistant Minister for Regional Health) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Nexus is a fantastic program run by La Trobe University that encourages people with undergraduate degrees and experience in different professions to fast-track a master of teaching degree while working in a classroom environment. Recently I visited Cobram Secondary College and spent some time in the classroom with the inspiring Carly Marriott. Carly demonstrates the profound difference educators can make in students' lives, empowering them to pursue their passions and unlock their full potential.

After building up a diverse range of skills over her career, and juggling life on a family farm raising three young kids, Carly was looking for a meaningful career change that still allowed her to stay connected to her local community. Nexus offered the flexibility and support she needed while studying the master of teaching, and she is now teaching business management and consumer education at Cobram Secondary College. When I was with her in the classroom I was able to chip in and have some great discussions with the students about free trade agreements, how they are negotiated and how they impact our region. If anyone has ever thought about teaching, the Nexus program is a fast track to a rewarding career. For students, it brings in educators with diverse backgrounds, from a wide range of professions, who can give them a broader perspective.