Unit outline_

EDUP4017: Professional Experiences Internship

Semester 2, 2025 [Normal day] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

This unit of study is the final professional experience in the Bachelor of Education Primary degree. This professional experience will focus on preservice teachers continuing to improve their professional knowledge and practice and actively engaging as members of their profession (AITSL Standards 5, 6 and 7). Students act in the role of graduate teacher, being responsible for a 50-60% teaching load, in a 30 day internship that is the culmination of this unit of study. The lectures and seminars will support students to develop a professional learning project that will build upon the professional learning undertaken in EDUP4079 in semester 1.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit Education
Credit points 4
Prerequisites
? 
170 credit points including (EDUP4018 or EDUP4019) and EDUP4074 and EDUP4076 and (EDUP4079 or EDUP4085) and (EDLN2000 or EDLN4000)
Corequisites
? 
None
Prohibitions
? 
None
Assumed knowledge
? 

None

Available to study abroad and exchange students

No

Teaching staff

Coordinator Nikki Brunker, nicole.brunker@sydney.edu.au
The census date for this unit availability is 1 September 2025
Type Description Weight Due Length Use of AI
Peer or expert observation or supervision hurdle task Internship placement final report
Successful completion of the internship report
50% Multiple weeks n/a AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2
Practical skill hurdle task AfGT
Complete Elements 1-4 of the AfGT (the TPA)
50% Multiple weeks 6000 words AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2
hurdle task = hurdle task ?

Assessment summary

  • Internship placement final report: Successful completion of Professional Experience placement as an Intern. Demonstration of all GTS.
  • AfGT: Successful completion of Elements 1-4.

Note that you must successfully complete both the placement report and the AfGT to pass the unit.

Detailed information for each assessment can be found on Canvas.

Assessment criteria

The University awards common result grades, set out in the Coursework Policy 2014 (Schedule 1).

As a general guide, a High distinction indicates work of an exceptional standard, a Distinction a very high standard, a credit a good standard, and a pass an acceptable standard.

Result name

Mark range

Description

High distinction

85 - 100

 

Distinction

75 - 84

 

Credit

65 - 74

 

Pass

50 - 100

All GTS are met.

Fail

0 - 49

When you don’t meet the learning outcomes of the unit to a satisfactory standard.

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

  • Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
  • After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM) which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

WK Topic Learning activity Learning outcomes
Week 01 Self-Assessing your development as a Graduate Teacher Workshop (3 hr) LO1 LO2
Week 02 Assessing Initial Teacher Education Learning/ Pedagogical Decision Making Workshop (3 hr) LO1
Week 03 Assessing Initial Teacher Education Learning / Writing feedback / Pedagogical Decision Making Workshop (3 hr) LO1
Week 04 Analysing evidence from students / Planning teaching for growth / Pedagogical Decision Making Workshop (3 hr) LO1
Week 05 Ensuring opportunities for formative assessment through teaching and learning and opportunities to act on the information gained Workshop (3 hr) LO1
Week 06 Differentiation: designing teaching, learning, and assessment for the diverse needs of children / Design summative assessment within your teaching sequence Workshop (3 hr) LO1
Week 07 Protocols: watch and analyse videos of practice / Plan further teaching and learning / Pedagogical Decision Making Workshop (3 hr) LO1
Week 08 Differences in analysing evidence from summative processes to formative processes / Analyse evidence from summative processes and write report comments for parents/carers / Make a data display Workshop (3 hr) LO1

Attendance and class requirements

Attendance: The Sydney School of Education and Social Work requires attendance of at least 90 percent of all seminars, workshops or lectures. Where a student is unable to attend at the required rate evidence of illness or misadventure may be required and the student may be required to undertake extra work. Students should discuss the circumstances of their absence(s) with the co-ordinator of the unit of study. Further details are provided in the School canvas site: https://canvas.sydney.edu.au/courses/13426

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 4 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 80-100 hours of student effort in total.

Required readings

See eReserve on Canvas for details.

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

  • LO1. design and conduct classroom-based teaching and learning, and assessments focused on improvement of your own teaching practice using assessment data and other evidence
  • LO2. demonstrate achievement of all graduate teacher standards during the internship.

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1 Depth of disciplinary expertise

Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.

GQ2 Critical thinking and problem solving

Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.

GQ3 Oral and written communication

Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.

GQ4 Information and digital literacy

Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.

GQ5 Inventiveness

Generating novel ideas and solutions.

GQ6 Cultural competence

Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.

GQ7 Interdisciplinary effectiveness

Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.

GQ8 Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity

An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.

GQ9 Influence

Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes Graduate qualities
GQ1 GQ2 GQ3 GQ4 GQ5 GQ6 GQ7 GQ8 GQ9

Alignment with Competency standards

Outcomes Competency standards
LO1
Australian Professional Standards for Teachers (Graduate Level – UG and MTeach) - AITSL
5. Professional Practice: Standard 5 - Assess, provide feedback and report on student learning
5.1. Assess student learning
5.1.1. (Graduate) Demonstrate understanding of assessment strategies, including informal and formal, diagnostic, formative and summative approaches to assess student learning.
5.2. Provide feedback to students on their learning
5.2.1. (Graduate) Demonstrate an understanding of the purpose of providing timely and appropriate feedback to students about their learning.
5.3. Make consistent and comparable judgements
5.3.1. (Graduate) Demonstrate understanding of assessment moderation and its application to support consistent and comparable judgements of student learning.
5.4. Interpret student data
5.4.1. (Graduate) Demonstrate the capacity to interpret student assessment data to evaluate student learning and modify teaching practice.
5.5. Report on student achievement
5.5.1. (Graduate) Demonstrate understanding of a range of strategies for reporting to students and parents/carers and the purpose of keeping accurate and reliable records of student achievement.
6. Professional Engagement: Standard 6 - Engage in professional learning
6.1. Identify and plan professional learning needs
6.1.1. (Graduate) Demonstrate an understanding of the role of the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers in identifying professional learning needs.
6.2. Engage in professional learning and improve practice
6.2.1. (Graduate) Understand the relevant and appropriate sources of professional learning for teachers.
6.3. Engage with colleagues and improve practice
6.3.1. (Graduate) Seek and apply constructive feedback from supervisors and teachers to improve teaching practices.
6.4. Apply professional learning and improve student learning
6.4.1. (Graduate) Demonstrate an understanding of the rationale for continued professional learning and the implications for improved student learning.
7. Professional Engagement: Standard 7 - Engage professionally with colleagues, parents/carers and the community
7.1. Meet professional ethics and responsibilities
7.1.1. (Graduate) Understand and apply the key principles described in codes of ethics and conduct for the teaching profession.
7.2. Comply with legislative, administrative and organisational requirements
7.2.1. (Graduate) Understand the relevant legislative, administrative and organisational policies and processes required for teachers according to school stage.
7.3. Engage with the parents/carers
7.3.1. (Graduate) Understand strategies for working effectively, sensitively and confidentially with parents/carers.
7.4. Engage with professional teaching networks and broader communities
7.4.1. (Graduate) Understand the role of external professionals and community representatives in broadening teachers’ professional knowledge and practice.
LO2
Australian Professional Standards for Teachers (Graduate Level – UG and MTeach) - AITSL
1. Professional Knowledge: Standard 1 - Know students and how they learn
2. Professional Knowledge: Standard 2 - Know the content and how to teach it
3. Professional Practice: Standard 3 - Plan for and implement effective teaching and learning
4. Professional Practice: Standard 4 - Create and maintain supportive and safe learning environments
5. Professional Practice: Standard 5 - Assess, provide feedback and report on student learning
6. Professional Engagement: Standard 6 - Engage in professional learning
7. Professional Engagement: Standard 7 - Engage professionally with colleagues, parents/carers and the community
Australian Professional Standards for Teachers (Graduate Level – UG and MTeach) -
Competency code Taught, Practiced or Assessed Competency standard
1.1.1 A (Graduate) Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of physical, social and intellectual development and characteristics of students and how these may affect learning.
1.2.1 A (Graduate) Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of research into how students learn and the implications for teaching.
1.3.1 A (Graduate) Demonstrate knowledge of teaching strategies that are responsive to the learning strengths and needs of students from diverse linguistic, cultural, religious and socio-economic backgrounds.
1.4.1 A (Graduate) Demonstrate broad knowledge and understanding of the impact of culture, cultural identity and linguistic background on the education of students from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander backgrounds.
1.5.1 A (Graduate) Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of strategies for differentiating teaching to meet the specific learning needs of students across the full range of abilities.
1.6.1 A (Graduate) Demonstrate broad knowledge and understanding of legislative requirements and teaching strategies that support participation and learning of students with disability.
2.1.1 A (Graduate) Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the concepts, substance and structure of the content and teaching strategies of the teaching area.
2.2.1 A (Graduate) Organise content into an effective learning and teaching sequence.
2.3.1 A (Graduate) Use curriculum, assessment and reporting knowledge to design learning sequences and lesson plans.
2.4.1 A (Graduate) Demonstrate broad knowledge of, understanding of and respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures and languages.
2.5.1 A (Graduate) Know and understand literacy and numeracy teaching strategies and their application in teaching areas.
2.6.1 A (Graduate) Implement teaching strategies for using ICT to expand curriculum learning opportunities for students.
3.1.1 A (Graduate) Set learning goals that provide achievable challenges for students of varying abilities and characteristics.
3.2.1 A (Graduate) Plan lesson sequences using knowledge of student learning, content and effective teaching strategies.
3.3.1 A (Graduate) Include a range of teaching strategies.
3.4.1 A (Graduate) Demonstrate knowledge of a range of resources, including ICT, that engage students in their learning.
3.5.1 A (Graduate) Demonstrate a range of verbal and non-verbal communication strategies to support student engagement.
3.6.1 A (Graduate) Demonstrate broad knowledge of strategies that can be used to evaluate teaching programs to improve student learning.
3.7.1 A (Graduate) Describe a broad range of strategies for involving parents/carers in the educative process.
4.1.1 A (Graduate) Identify strategies to support inclusive student participation and engagement in classroom activities.
4.2.1 A (Graduate) Demonstrate the capacity to organise classroom activities and provide clear directions.
4.3.1 A (Graduate) Demonstrate knowledge of practical approaches to manage challenging behaviour.
4.4.1 A (Graduate) Describe strategies that support students’ wellbeing and safety working within school and/or system, curriculum and legislative requirements.
4.5.1 A (Graduate) Demonstrate an understanding of the relevant issues and the strategies available to support the safe, responsible and ethical use of ICT in learning and teaching.
5.1.1 A (Graduate) Demonstrate understanding of assessment strategies, including informal and formal, diagnostic, formative and summative approaches to assess student learning.
5.2.1 A (Graduate) Demonstrate an understanding of the purpose of providing timely and appropriate feedback to students about their learning.
5.3.1 A (Graduate) Demonstrate understanding of assessment moderation and its application to support consistent and comparable judgements of student learning.
5.4.1 A (Graduate) Demonstrate the capacity to interpret student assessment data to evaluate student learning and modify teaching practice.
5.5.1 A (Graduate) Demonstrate understanding of a range of strategies for reporting to students and parents/carers and the purpose of keeping accurate and reliable records of student achievement.
6.1.1 A (Graduate) Demonstrate an understanding of the role of the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers in identifying professional learning needs.
6.2.1 A (Graduate) Understand the relevant and appropriate sources of professional learning for teachers.
6.3.1 A (Graduate) Seek and apply constructive feedback from supervisors and teachers to improve teaching practices.
6.4.1 A (Graduate) Demonstrate an understanding of the rationale for continued professional learning and the implications for improved student learning.
7.1.1 A (Graduate) Understand and apply the key principles described in codes of ethics and conduct for the teaching profession.
7.2.1 A (Graduate) Understand the relevant legislative, administrative and organisational policies and processes required for teachers according to school stage.
7.3.1 A (Graduate) Understand strategies for working effectively, sensitively and confidentially with parents/carers.
7.4.1 A (Graduate) Understand the role of external professionals and community representatives in broadening teachers’ professional knowledge and practice.

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

In this unit, students are given the opportunity to develop professional knowledge and practice in authentic ways. Guest lecturers and tutors on this UOS have recent classroom experience in DoE schools.

Site visit guidelines

If you are undertaking professional experience/field education placement as part of your enrolment in this unit of study, please assess your specific needs and requirements for the safe and successful completion of an external placement within a host organisation. You will be given the opportunity to disclose any health issues that have a work health and safety significance before arranging a placement so that your safety, and the safety of others, can be properly assessed. The Professional Experience Coordinator/Field Education Manager will work to ensure that the workplace assignment to you is appropriate for your needs and requirements. If you are experiencing disability, and require reasonable adjustments to be arranged, please contact Disability Services as early as possible prior to commencing the internship. Please note, in all cases, and for the purpose of organising reasonable adjustments, only the impact and not the nature, of your disability will be disclosed to the host organisation.

Work, health and safety

Working with Children Check.

First Aid.

Disclaimer

Important: the University of Sydney regularly reviews units of study and reserves the right to change the units of study available annually. To stay up to date on available study options, including unit of study details and availability, refer to the relevant handbook.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.