The start of the year is proving to be popular for enquiries from teachers who are thinking about their career goals and considering seeking voluntary Highly Accomplished or Lead Teacher Accreditation. Some common questions on this topic are answered below.

What’s involved in applying for a higher level of accreditation?

Applicants develop and submit a comprehensive formal submission for assessment and approval by their Teacher Accreditation Authority (A/L). The submission must demonstrate how you meet the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers at the Highly Accomplished or Lead Teacher levels. Three sources of evidence are required - documentary, referee reports and an external observation. A submission fee also applies.

In 2013, across all sectors, 21 teachers were accredited at the equivalent of Highly Accomplished Teacher and 19 were accredited at the equivalent of Lead Teacher – across NSW, 98 teachers are currently accredited at the Highly Accomplished or Lead Teacher levels. These small numbers are consistent with the expectations of the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers which describe excellence and leadership in teaching practice, delivering student outcomes and contributing to the profession at these levels.

Am I ready to achieve a higher level of accreditation?

To help you answer this question you are encouraged to:

1. Download the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers

2. Spend time reflecting on your teaching practice in relation to the standard descriptors across the levels of Proficient, Highly Accomplished and Lead Teacher

3. Do you have documentary evidence to demonstrate your achievement of the Standards at either Highly Accomplished or Lead Teacher levels? Would reports from your referees and an external observation of your classroom practice support your application?

4. Complete an online self-assessment, including feedback from BOSTES. BOSTES strongly recommends you do this before you start developing a formal submission. A $65.00 fee applies.

I am an ‘existing teacher’, not currently required* to be accredited. Can I still apply for accreditation?

Yes. You may still choose to seek accreditation at Proficient , Highly Accomplished or Lead Teacher level.

* Mandatory accreditation is not currently necessary for teachers who have worked in NSW since before 1 October 2004, and have not had a break from teaching of more than 5 years.

Review information about each level of NSW teacher accreditation.

For more information, contact:
contactus@nswteachers.nsw.edu.au
please use the subject line: "Higher levels of accreditation enquiry"
1300 739 338