Apply now for the Secondary Mathematics and Science Initiative

Applications for the Secondary Mathematics and Science Initiative (SMSI) are open for out-of-field science teachers who want to upskill with a university graduate certificate to become in-field specialists.

SMSI provides funding for out-of-field teachers to specialise in the teaching of mathematics and science in secondary schools. Places in the maths stream are limited, but out-of-field science teachers are encouraged to apply.

Out-of-field teachers are those who do not specialise in the subject they are teaching.

Teachers who are currently teaching years 7 to 10 out-of-field will be trained in 2021 to become in-field by 2022.

The graduate certificate

The graduate certificate is a formal university qualification to teach maths or science to level 10.

The course will enhance your skills to provide evidence-based, high-quality learning experiences for students. You will develop the confidence to lead improvements and share your learning with other staff across your school.

What's involved

The SMSI is fully funded and teachers will not incur any out-of-pocket expenses.

Each school will receive 0.2 full-time equivalent time release for each teacher taking part in the graduate certificates, giving them time to complete assessments and study.

It will involve the equivalent of 20 days of professional learning. Courses will be held in central Melbourne or online, based on the Victorian Government coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions in place at the time.

Additional support will be provided, including local networking opportunities.

Teachers from regional and rural schools who attend face-to-face teaching in Melbourne will be reimbursed for travel, meals and accommodation costs.

How to apply

For more information on how to apply, SMSI expression of interest forms(opens in a new window) is available on the FUSE website.

You may be eligible to apply even if your senior method only covers part of the 7-10 curriculum and you would like to strengthen your knowledge across the discipline.