More than 100 students will begin their first day of study with Australia’s Charles Sturt University in Ontario today, Monday, 29 August 2005.

Studying the Bachelor of Primary Education Studies, the students will be a part of a historical occasion as Charles Sturt University (CSU) commences delivery of the course on Ontario soil, one of the first foreign institutions to receive consent to operate as a University in the province.
 
“Charles Sturt University has a long and fine history in educating teachers who have the professional attributes needed for this modern world. I am immensely proud of this record - and of this occasion that sees the commencement of CSU studies in Ontario.” CSU Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ian Goulter said.

“This important program gives primary teaching students the opportunity to stay in the local area and alleviates the pressure of having to relocate to gain their qualifications.”

With the support and cooperation of the Halton District School Board (HDSB) as well as Burlington community, Charles Sturt University received Ministerial approval to offer the Bachelor of Primary Education Studies from the HDSB’s Bay Area Learning Centre in December 2004.

Charles Sturt University has dedicated some of its leading academic staff to work on the teaching program in Ontario with specialist educator Professor Tom Lowrie travelling to Ontario to head up the program,. Professor Lowrie will be supported by specialist teaching and research staff from CSU’s Faculty of Education.

Professor Lowrie said “collaboration” is central to how CSU works, when referring to how the one-year education degree program has been designed to foster links between schools and teacher providers.

“We have had a wonderful response by students, the community and teachers to the program and have selected the very best students to participate in the degree,” Professor Lowrie said.

CSU’s reputation for working collaboratively with communities to provide quality higher education solutions to meet their needs is reflected in the University’s linkage with the Halton District School Board. CSU students will complete their practical work in Halton District Board schools adding to the depth and authenticity of the professional experience, and HDSB staff have been seconded to teach on the program.

“The practical teaching experience allows our students to make a significant contribution to, as well as learning from, the school community,” said Professor Lowrie. 

Interim Director of Education, Halton District School Board, Barry Finlay said, “We are pleased to be partnering with Charles Sturt University in the delivery of its Bachelor of Primary Studies program in Burlington. The program will provide additional teaching support in our schools since teams of five student- teachers will be assigned to the same school for the entire school year to gain their practical teaching experience. It also means more of our teaching staff will become associate teachers – and there is no better professional development than teaching others what you do.”