For the first time, the Teacher Registration Board of the Northern Territory is hosting the Australasian Teacher Regulatory Authorities (ATRA) annual general meeting in Darwin.

Over the next two days, representatives from teacher registration boards and councils across Australia and New Zealand will meet to discuss key issues surrounding education regulation and reform initiatives.

Chair of the Teacher Registration Board NT Karen Blanchfield said “It is a privilege to host such an important meeting involving teacher registration boards from all jurisdictions.”

“It gives us a chance to build on established relationships, showcase local hospitality and affirms our commitment to continuously lifting the quality of teaching in the Northern Territory,” Ms Blanchfield said.

“The Teacher Registration Board NT is responsible for the registration of teachers in the Northern Territory, accreditation of Initial Teacher Education programs and manages complaints involving the teaching profession.

“Counterpart bodies in the other jurisdictions have very similar responsibilities and the national meeting provides invaluable opportunities for authorities to learn from each other and improve their systems and services.”

Key agenda items for the meeting include:

• factors impacting the future of education regulation;
• factors influencing teaching as a first career choice; and
• professional learning opportunities for teachers.

The key role of the ATRA is to facilitate collaboration between teacher regulatory bodies for developing professional standards, professional learning and ethical conduct for teachers.

Teacher Registration Board NT plays a key role in the certification of Highly Accomplished and Lead Teachers (HALT).

On 16-17 September, the Teacher Registration Board NT will facilitate the NT HALT Forum, bringing together certified teachers and potential future applicants from across the Territory to collaborate, contribute to and promote high quality teaching in the Northern Territory.

Teachers with this certification are considered experts and excel in their practice. Achieving national certification is a significant accomplishment involving a rigorous and robust assessment of evidence of practice.

Media contact: Kat Acampora – 0401 119 215