Pathways to Teaching in Tertiary Education: Unlocking Careers Opportunities in Vocational and Higher Education
Details:
12:30- 1:20 pm
5th of December
Room: 1S-210
Aaron Hosking + Panel
Brendon Munge
Tash Hay
Matthew Cox
Marcus Morse
The tertiary education landscape in Australia, encompassing both university and vocational (TAFE) sectors, offers a wide array of courses designed to prepare students for professional success. Educators in these fields bring a wealth of experience and a unique set of skills to their teaching roles, often blending academic knowledge with practical expertise. This session will delve into the pathways to becoming an educator in the tertiary sector, with a particular emphasis on outdoor education and leadership. We will explore the education, experiences, and competencies required to teach and lead in these environments, highlighting the distinct demands and opportunities present in university and vocational education. Attendees will leave with a clear understanding of the steps needed to pursue a career in tertiary education, and the vital role that educators play in shaping future leaders in outdoor education.
About the Presenter
With 18 years in Outdoor Education, Aaron is a dedicated teacher, respected trainer, and skilled resource developer. At Box Hill Institute, he’s been integral to its emergence as a leading provider of vocational education in Outdoor Leadership. Aaron thrives on leading immersive outdoor experiences that spark curiosity and develop connections. Teaching others to explore and appreciate nature brings him great satisfaction, while inspiring students of all ages to discover themselves through outdoor pursuits. Beyond work, he cherishes time on the family farm or embarking on travel adventures. You might also find him in the kitchen, where his students can attest to his fondness for drawing metaphors and analogies from his cooking experiences.
With over 20 years in the outdoor industry, Tash currently teaches Certificate IV in Outdoor Leadership at Box Hill Institute (BHI), managing the traineeship pathway. Her passion for teaching stems from a desire to help individuals build their skills, knowledge, and experiences in the outdoors, fostering lasting, impactful moments. Tash’s background includes roles as a national staff development trainer and tertiary education partnership manager, which have equipped her to support students’ growth effectively. She finds immense joy in seeing students transform, gaining confidence and passion as they translate their learning into inspiring work with others. Beyond teaching, Tash is a dedicated women’s football coach and enjoys walking her dog, cycling, and going to the gym
I have been working in the outdoors for 30 years. A large part of this time has been spent teaching at university level. My research is industry and practice focused where i am investigating how the professional identity of university students develops as well as how the identity of the outdoor industry is entwined with social perceptions of the work we carry out.
Mr Brendon Munge FHEA is an Associate Lecturer in the Bachelor of Education (Secondary) / Bachelor of Recreation and Outdoor Environmental Studies and the Diploma of Outdoor Environmental Studies. Brendon is also the Program Coordinator for the Bachelor of Recreation and Outdoor Environmental Studies and the Diploma of Outdoor Environmental Studies.
Brendon’s primary focus in teaching has been on providing new students with foundational knowledge and experience in outdoor and environmental studies. However, he also has a significant component of his work linked to utilising expeditions, particularly bushwalking, to engage in outdoor education learning.
Marcus Morse is Associate Professor of Outdoor and Environmental Education at the University of Tasmania, Australia. His research focuses on place-based and relational outdoor environmental education, community engagement projects, river experience, and wild pedagogies.
