Growing Future Teachers From Within

For regional schools like St Mary’s College in Seymour, attracting and retaining staff can be a challenge. Rather than relying solely on external recruitment, the school has embraced AFL SportsReady traineeships as a way to build its own future workforce – and with outstanding results, including current trainee Lachlan King being named the 2026 Trainee of the Year.

Acting Principal Genevieve Gordon says the traineeship program allows the school to invest in young people who show a genuine aptitude for working with students and an interest in teaching.

“We see traineeships as more than just extra support. They’re about developing future educators who understand our school community and may one day return as teachers.”

Lachlan’s recognition as 2026 Trainee of the Year reflects the impact he has had during his time at St Mary’s. He has become a highly valued member of the school, progressing through a scaffolded mentoring approach from supporting routines to confidently leading PE lessons under supervision. In a busy regional school, that support makes a real difference.

“Lachlan is flexible, reliable and adaptable. It’s a blessing having him here – particularly given we are a regional school, so we’re very short staffed at the moment.”

“He supports classes, helps on excursions and sporting carnivals and provides an extra adult presence where it matters most. There’s a high level of trust there.”

Students feel it too.

“The best way to describe how valued he is among our students is – the very first thing out of their mouths is usually ‘Where’s Lachie?’”

St Mary’s has a history of successful traineeships, with past participants like Chloe and Ollie returning to the school or pursuing teaching pathways. This continuity strengthens the school community and creates a sustainable pipeline of skilled staff.

“We call them boomerangs – because they come back.”

St Mary’s pairs trainees with experienced mentors and provides clear structure, expectations and feedback. Trainees are encouraged to take initiative, contribute ideas and learn from mistakes in a supportive environment.

“The confidence growth we see during a traineeship is incredible. That real-world experience prepares them far better than study alone.”

Lachlan’s achievement as AFL SportsReady’s 2026 Trainee of the Year further highlights the strength of this approach. Through real-world experience and consistent mentoring, he has developed skills and confidence that have prepared him for future teaching roles.

“He is as capable as a fourth year university student. To be honest with you, he is ready to go out into a school and teach.”

A key strength of the program is its focus on what comes next. Towards the end of each traineeship, St Mary’s supports trainees to plan their future pathway – often into teaching – and where possible, creates opportunities for them to return while studying if that’s what they want to pursue.

“It’s about building our own workforce. In a regional community – that’s invaluable.”