Secondary school teachers across the state will have the opportunity to expand their teaching skills as part of a program to fast-track new maths or science teachers by 2023, thanks to the Andrews Labor Government.

Minister for Education James Merlino today opened expressions of interest for the second intake of the Secondary Mathematics and Science Initiative, encouraging current teachers to take part and become in-field maths and science teachers by 2023.

The initiative is being run in partnership with Deakin University and teachers taking part will experience 16 face-to-face course days as well as after-school virtual workshops between February 2022 and November 2022.

The program is designed to build confidence and capability in teaching maths or science to help more students achieve their full potential.

At the end of the program, teachers will receive a fully-funded graduate certificate in either maths or science through Deakin University – with credit points being able to be put towards a Master of Education. The certification will allow them to teach maths or science from years 7 to 10.

The intake is limited to 75 places in maths and 25 places in science, with 50 places reserved for regional and rural participants.

Quality learning opportunities for teachers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) disciplines will ensure Victoria has a strong supply of world-class professionals with the specialised skills to compete in the global knowledge economy.

The Labor Government has invested $17.8 million for the Secondary Mathematics and Science Initiative, which will provide around 270 out-of-field secondary teachers with further training in maths and science over two intakes.