Julia Gillard Launches Teach for Australia to "Attract Best and Brightest Graduates into Teaching". (April 21, 2009)

Stemming from Pathway programs for top graduates such as "Teach First" in the UK and "Teach for America" in the US, which give indications of delivering better student outcomes as well as raising the status of teaching, the Federal Minister for Education, Julia Gillard has announced "Teach for Australia".

It is defined by the minister as "an independent, non profit organisation working with government and business partners, to coordinate the initiative nationally and to ensure graduates have a consistent and high quality experience".

The hope is that through "Teach for Australia", high-achieving graduates from Australian universities will sign up for an intensive 2 year placement in Australian schools where they can have a significant effect on student interest and achievement.

Completion of their two-years, which will expose them to support and mentoring from experienced teachers and business leaders, they will be given teaching accreditation but in fact many are expected to then begin careers with the corporate employers who partner "Teach for Australia".

Ms Gillard hopes that "many will continue their involvement with education, helping to create new solutions and strengthen community support".

The program is slated to start in Victoria next year and is looking to attract 90 recruits for its first intake.