Abstract:

Australia faces a shortage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander teachers. While approximately 4% of children in Australian schools are Indigenous (Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander), only approximately 1% of teachers are Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander. The sad fact is that of all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who begin initial teacher education (ITE) less than one-third - 30% - graduate and enter the teaching profession. MATSITI is a four year (2011-15) program aimed at increasing the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people entering and remaining in professional teaching positions in Australian schools. Developing strategies that enhance the professional and leadership capabilities of experienced Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander teachers form a key component of the Initiative. MATSITI has undertaken research and participated in projects with individuals, universities and state/territory jurisdictions during the last three years, in particular with the Australian Council of Deans of Education. This paper will report on research and partnerships, and explore the outcomes of completed projects and progress of ongoing projects. It will also explore the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Workforce data report.

Keywords:

Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, teacher education, teacher workforce.