The NSW Department of Education partners with leading initial teacher education (ITE) providers to offer on‑campus support through University Partnership Leads (UPLs). Your UPL is a direct connection to the department while you’re at university, providing guidance, advice and personalised support as you prepare for a career in teaching.
Your UPL can support you with:
- one-on-one career guidance and mentoring
- finding information about gaining approval to teach in NSW public schools
- preparing for professional experience placements
- navigating early employment opportunities and pathways into NSW public schools.
Whether you are in your first year or approaching graduation, your UPL is there to support, guide and connect you every step of the way.
Meet the team and find your UPL
Our University Partnership Leads are all experienced NSW public school teachers who are based on campus to support you throughout your studies.
We currently have UPLs on campus at:
- The University of Sydney
- Western Sydney University
- University of Newcastle
- University of Technology Sydney
- Australian Catholic University
- Macquarie University
Use the directory below to find your on‑campus University Partnership Lead.
The University of Sydney (USYD)
Meet Gillian
Gillian is a secondary TAS teacher who has taught in a number of NSW public schools across Sydney. She has held advisory roles in curriculum, student health and wellbeing, teacher training and stakeholder engagement, and brings a wealth of experience to supporting pre-service teachers.
On campus:
Tuesday and Wednesday
Education Building (A35), Camperdown Campus
Western Sydney University
Meet Sam
Sam is an experienced K-6 teacher and leader who specialises in curriculum development and teacher mentoring. Sam has held roles ranging from classroom teacher to deputy principal and foundation assistant principal - curriculum and instruction. She is committed to building strong connections with pre-service teachers and providing personalised guidance as they begin their teaching careers.
On campus:
Tuesday (Level 5 PEX Office), Bankstown campus
Thursday (Education Building, Building J - Ground Floor), Kingswood campus
University of Newcastle
Meet Joel
Joel is an experienced secondary TAS and PD/H/PE teacher who has worked across a number of NSW public schools as a head teacher - wellbeing, year adviser, HPGE coordinator, zone sport convenor, and early career teacher mentor. Joel's experience has centred on student and staff wellbeing and fostering inclusive environments, which he continues in his work on campus.
On campus:
Monday and Tuesday
Griffith Duncan (V) Building in Office V120, Callaghan campus
University of Technology Sydney
Meet Amy
Amy is a secondary PD/H/PE teacher with a special interest in dance. She has taught in public schools across south-east Sydney and developed a diverse skill-set across her career as both a classroom teacher and year advisor. Amy enjoys coordinating whole-school programs and is a strong advocate for teaching careers. She is committed to supporting initial teacher education students throughout their degree and into their teaching career.
On campus:
Wednesday and Thursday
CB10.04.204
Australian Catholic University
Meet Sanaa
Sanaa is a secondary science teacher with experience across a range of NSW public school settings. She has held senior leadership roles, including head teacher - science, teacher quality advisor, various roles with NESA, and as a teacher accreditation authority for early career teachers. Sanaa is passionate about mentoring future teachers and providing wrap-around support, to ensure that future generations receive the same outstanding education she received as a proud public education student.
On campus:
Monday and Wednesday
St Edmund Building, 613 Level 1, Room 26, Strathfield campus
Macquarie University
Meet Sonia
Sonia is an experienced K-6 teacher and leader who specialises in curriculum design and instructional leadership. Sonia has held roles ranging from classroom teacher to deputy principal and assistant principal - curriculum and instruction, supporting whole-school improvement and teacher mentoring. Sonia values building strong relationships on campus and engaging with students, providing tailored support around teaching pathways.
On campus:
Tuesday and Wednesday
25B Wally’s Walk, Level 7, Room B713
Connect with us
For more information about University Partnership Leads, please email teachnsw@det.nsw.edu.au.