If you are in your first five years of teaching, or are a pre-service teacher, you are eligible to be a new educator member of the SSTUWA and be supported by the union’s Growth Team with targeted visits, information, advice and training.

The 2026 Growth Team is made up of team coordinator Chloe Hosking and interns James Youd (seen below, left) and Ainsley Poon (seen below, right). You might have already bumped into us at a graduate module, during university orientation, or on one of our school visits.

The Growth Team exists to ensure that new educators feel connected, confident and supported as they begin their careers. We understand that the early years of teaching can be challenging and, at times, overwhelming. Our role is to assist you during this period, helping you to navigate the profession and access the support you need to thrive.

Through school visits, professional learning opportunities and one-on-one conversations, the Growth Team provides practical advice on topics such as graduate entitlements, workload management, registration requirements and professional development. We also help new educators understand how the union advocates on their behalf and how SSTUWA membership can support you throughout your career.

In addition to in-person visits, the Growth Team works closely with universities and schools to engage pre-service teachers and early career teachers, ensuring they are aware of the resources available to them. Whether it’s answering a quick question, providing guidance during a challenging situation, or helping you build confidence as a professional, the Growth Team is here to help.

If you see us out and about, don’t hesitate to say hello. We’re always happy to chat, answer questions and support you on your teaching journey. If you’d like to arrange a Growth Team visit to your school, get in touch at neweducator@sstuwa.org.au

We can visit before school or during break times, bringing info, resources and even some merch.