Microcredentials address skills shortage

Two free microcredentials are being offered by Charles Sturt to ‘out-of-field’ teachers to upskill in the areas of mathematics and science. Announced in 2024, these microcredentials are supporting out-of-field teachers of mathematics and science, or teachers looking to add an additional teaching area. Funded through the Australian Government’s Microcredentials Pilot in Higher Education, these microcredentials are a much-needed solution to the qualified STEM teacher shortage projected to affect up to 70,000 students annually by 2030.

“We know that subject matter expertise directly influences the quality of education, and the aspirations students have in STEM fields,” Charles Sturt mathematics education lecturer Dr Janelle Hill said. “These microcredentials are about equipping teachers with the confidence, skills and pathways to positively shape our future generations.” Furthermore, this addresses critical gaps in the teaching workforce as experienced teachers move into retirement. These microcredentials are open to any accredited teachers based in Australia, with 25 dedicated scholarships on offer.