“I want to give back”

Teaching not a career but a calling for Edward

Meet Edward Ligaiviu, a classroom leader in the making.

He’s a student in one of our undergraduate teaching courses—the Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Teaching (Secondary). The courses are, according to The Good Universities Guide 2024, number one in Australia for overall educational experience, student support, learner engagement and teaching quality. They give students like Edward practical experience, skills, access to school networks . . . and influence. “You’re with the students six hours a day, five days a week, which is probably more time than the students spend with their parents.”

Edward sees teaching not just as a career but as a calling—his includes building self-worth and sense of fulfilment. “That’s the most satisfying thing: seeing students grow and become the best versions of themselves.”

He speaks from experience. His high school teachers “invested a lot of time in me.” The payoff: confidence. “I felt I could do absolutely anything. Now I want to give back and help other students tap their potential. I want them to double down. To say, ’This is what I want to do after I graduate.’ To make that decision themselves.”

With one-on-one coaching and course advice from lecturers and work placements organised for him by the School of Education and Science, Edward is receiving the same quality care at Avondale. “The community is strong.” His advice to those thinking about becoming a teacher? “Just do it. And do it here.”