Sydney Catholic Schools and the Australian Catholic University are once again teaming up for the Step Up Into Teaching program, providing high school students the chance to experience university life, gain early entry into teaching courses and receive credit towards their degree. 

Step Up Into Teaching (SUIT) is an early entry university program run by the Australian Catholic University (ACU), offering high school students considering a career in teaching a head start on their learning journey.

Students participating in SUIT have the opportunity to study one or two modules equivalent to university level units while completing their high school studies.

Modules include: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Knowledges, Histories and Cultures (EDEZ105) which develops students’ understanding of, and respect for Indigenous culture; and Digital Cultures and Capabilities (EDEZ104), which helps students understand the influence of digital technologies on contemporary life. 

Students who pass their SUIT studies will receive an offer to study a Bachelor of Education degree at ACU and can receive credit (recognition of prior learning) for one or two specified units in early childhood, primary or secondary teaching courses.

Studying university subjects through the SUIT program is also HECS free – ACU and Sydney Catholic Schools are this year providing 40 funded places for students, 30 more than in 2021. 

Dr Kate O’Brien, Director of Education and Research at Sydney Catholic Schools, said the increase in funded places is a reflection of Sydney Catholic Schools’ commitment to supporting growth in the teaching profession. 

“Teaching is a wonderful profession where you see everyday how you support the development of a young person’s character and where you can positively make a difference on a student’s life” – Dr Kate O’Brien

“It’s a priority at Sydney Catholic Schools that we proactively look at ways to encourage the next generation of teachers, and the SUIT program is a fantastic example of how we can help nurture those who have a passion for education,” Dr O’Brien said. 

Open up your options

Lisa Aitken, Education Officer: Pathways and Partnerships at Sydney Catholic Schools, said the program aims to give high school students a head-start on the next phase of life. 

“The goal of the program is to broaden opportunities for students to strengthen their post school pathways and prepare for their future” – Lisa Aitken 

“Students are able to get real world experience in a university setting,” Mrs Aitken said.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity for students to get a taste of campus life and the university community and see if it’s something that suits them.”

A taste of Uni life

Daniella Musa, a Good Samaritan Catholic College Hinchinbrook Year 12 student who completed SUIT earlier this year, said the program provided an invaluable experience. 

Good Samaritan student Daniella Musa.

“I enrolled in this course because I was interested in becoming a teacher and thought that this program is ideal for my goal,” Daniella said.

“I was eager to put myself in the shoes of a university student and get a glimpse of what goes on in life after high school.

“I enjoyed everything about this program and the two units as they taught me things that I was interested in but never realised.” 

Daniella said students considering applying to SUIT should dive right in. 

“I say go for it! This is a fantastic opportunity for you to get a taste of university life while also challenging your intellect” – Daniella Musa

“It will give you the opportunity to experience life as a university student and let you determine which pathway is best for you,” Daniella added.

Sign up for 2022

Students, parents and carers can find out more about SUIT at an information evening being held at ACU on Monday, 30 May from 5pm. 

To attend the information session please complete the registration form here. 

For more information on the program please see the flyer here.

The Sydney Catholic Schools Pathways and Partnerships team are working to develop and scale credentials for students across Sydney Catholic schools.

Students will have more opportunities to gain deep learning experiences, explore their passions and boost their post school pathways.