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Why so many new teachers feel unprepared – and what we can do about it

"Every year, thousands of new teachers step into Australian classrooms full of passion and preparation. But many feel unprepared for one of the most complex aspects of the job: designing and delivering assessment."

Reference: Brownlie, N. (2025, May,29) Why so many new teachers feel unprepared - and what we can do about it. Edu Research Matters.

This short easy to read post discusses assessment practices in schools and teachers’ experiences in the early stages of their careers. Brownlie focuses on Assessment Literacy specifically highlighting; competence, opportunity and confidence. Confidence is identified by Brownlie as the weakest link, with confidence leading to ‘Voice’. Differences in expectations and support for new teachers are also highlighted. Brownlie challenges teacher educators to reconsider the way assessment is considered in Initial Teacher Education programs. An important issue and a worthwhile read particularly for teacher educators and teachers supporting new teachers in schools.

Why so many new teachers feel unprepared – and what we can do about it

Keywords: Assessment | Literacy Across the Curriculum | Policy | Teachers

Resource Added: 31 July, 2025

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