This exciting recognition comes after years of Seymour using something called Quality Teaching Rounds, or QTR for short. This special way of learning helps teachers work together, reflect on their teaching, and find new ways to be even better at helping students learn.
The QTR program was created by the University of Newcastle’s School of Education and is backed by research. It gives teachers a chance to learn from each other in a smart, structured way. And that means Seymour students get to learn from teachers who are always improving their skills and thinking of fun, effective ways to teach.
Seymour College’s Deputy Principal – Academics and Professional Practice, Natalie Paelchen, and Principal, Vanessa Browning, were even invited to speak at a major conference about their journey with QTR.
Now that the University of Newcastle is rolling out the next version of QTR—called Enhancing Assessment Practices—Seymour teachers will get even more chances to grow. This new phase helps teachers look at how they check students’ learning, making sure they’re giving the right kind of support at the right time.
“Our teachers are exceptional professionals, and the Quality Teaching Rounds provide a powerful framework for them to enhance their practice through collaboration and shared expertise,” said Ms Paelchen. “This partnership with the QT Academy is a recognition of our years of dedication to this approach, and it allows us to continue fostering innovation in education.”
To see more, including teacher stories and a message from Principal Vanessa Browning, check out the video below.
As an official QT Academy partner, Seymour College now gets access to special training and new learning tools. Even more exciting—it gives teachers a chance to share ideas and learn from each other in a space where everyone’s focused on being their best for students.
Here’s what some Seymour teachers had to say about their experience with QTR:
“Self-reflection was the biggest takeaway. The process invited me to consider each and every lesson I teach in a more analytical manner, while the feedback I received helped me recognise both my strengths and areas for growth,” said one Secondary teacher.
“QTR heightened my motivation to teach even more. It was rewarding to engage in professional dialogue with peers, learning from their experiences and seeing firsthand how different teaching strategies can enhance student learning,” added a Primary teacher.
Find out more about Seymour College: seymour.sa.edu.au
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