Frequently Asked Questions

TSAS provides a school-embedded teacher training program integrating university study, practical experience and mentorship. Trainees work in Christian schools while completing their education, receiving hands-on experience in real classrooms.

Learn more about the Teaching Schools Alliance Sydney.

A trainee’s week includes:

• 1-2 days per week working in a school with a mentor teacher.

• University coursework (online and flexible).

• Thursday Bespoke sessions 11:30 AM - 3:30 PM, 6 sessions each term. Hosted at a TSAS partner school focused on Christian education, pedagogy and professional development.

Trainees may seek employment outside of their TSAS commitments. However, it is recommended that additional employment does not exceed 2 days and must not impact the TSAS program.

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TSAS and its member schools are invested in securing employment for trainees. Therefore, trainees are prioritised for teaching positions in TSAS member schools. If no positions are available, trainees may also seek employment elsewhere with TSAS support​.

Trainees studying with UNE are eligible for a Commonwealth Supported Place where the Australian Government subsidies the course fee. Trainees studying with Alphacrucis College University receive a 50% subsidy from their Alliance School. All Trainees can also defer payment of fees using Higher Education Loan Program (HELP).

Trainees are paid for their school-based work. This includes a two-week full-time placement at the beginning of each year and part-time employment throughout the program​. They are paid as a Teacher’s Aide during term time.

Trainees are often successful in additional employment at their school, particularly once they obtain Conditional Accreditation and can teach unsupervised. The Director of TSAS can also provide assistance with additional employment in school.

Bachelor of Education (Primary or Secondary) or Master of Teaching (Primary or Secondary)

For more information, see our University Pathways page.

The program is demanding, so it is important that trainees carefully consider their capacity and prioritise their TSAS commitments. However, many trainees work part-time during their traineeships. This is often in their Alliance school, particularly when they reach Conditional Accreditation.

It is recommended that additional employment outside of the TSAS program does not exceed 2 days and must not impact the TSAS program.

Professional Experience (PEX) is a requirement of both Master and Bachelor degrees. Most trainees choose a variety of schools to broaden their experience. TSAS provides support to identify and connect with schools for PEX.