New Educators Network (NEN) 2026

Queensland Teachers' Journal, Vol 131 No 4, 26 June 2026, page no.19

The Queensland Teachers’ Union (QTU) has a strong history of supporting new educators. Since the New Educators Network (NEN) began in 2012, more than 190 early-career teachers have taken part in the program and benefited from the opportunities it provides to learn, connect and grow.

In 2026, the QTU welcomed 20 members into the NEN program. The program included an online training session, a full-day workshop at the QTU office in Milton, and the chance to attend State Council and see the Union in action. Here this year’s participants share their experiences.

Serina Pennay: “For me, the strongest focus of this experience was the Campaigning and Leadership section. During the online session, Acting General Secretary Brendan Crotty helped me understand that campaigning is not simply about raising concerns, but about using evidence, collective strength, and strategic pressure to advocate for better conditions. President Cresta Richardson showed me that leadership does not always begin with having all the answers; sometimes it begins with showing up, listening, contributing, and being willing to stand with others. The training day encouraged us to think about our own regions, the issues that matter to our members, and the building blocks needed to campaign effectively.”

Chloe Williamson: "At the core of any teacher is a love of learning, and I’ve really appreciated the opportunity to continue learning myself through the training and working closely with my organiser, Lynn Cowie-McAllister. Every conversation with Lynn about my NEN project leaves me with new ideas, new perspectives, and greater confidence. The NEN program has reminded me that strong unions are built through relationships, conversations, and collective action, and it’s been exciting to explore how that can look in our own workplaces and communities."

Rachelle Cooke: "Our session with Brendan Crotty on the current QTU priories gave me an insight into how the QTU is fighting for us at the systemic level. Brendan shared the key asks in the State Budget campaign (separate from EB and arbitration), including inclusion programs that actually work, changes to the criminal code to tackle parental abuse, and a charter that would make certain behaviours unacceptable and provide standard consequences."

Letitia Robinson: "The negotiation skills session highlighted the importance of entering discussions with a clear understanding of both your motivation and your bottom line. Equally important was the reminder to take the time to understand what the other party is hoping to achieve. One analogy that strongly resonated was two people arguing over an orange. At face value, both positions were “I need the orange”, but once motivations were explored, it became clear that one needed the juice and the other needed the rind. By understanding the underlying need rather than focusing only on the stated position, both parties secured a positive outcome."

Lauren Hillery: "Acting Deputy General Secretary Paige Bousen’s Workplace Health and Safety Campaigning session strengthened my understanding of how WHS legislation applies in schools, particularly around safe systems of work, proactive risk management, and employer responsibilities under the act. It encouraged me to view WHS not simply as compliance, but as a practical framework for preventing harm and supporting staff wellbeing. As a newer Union Rep, I found the session both practical and empowering."

Jamie Van Haaren: "The NEN program challenged each of us to create a campaign that we wanted to fight for, whether it was something local to us or something with a more reach. It was fascinating listening to the other NEN participants and what they are planning for their projects this year. We were given support from our Organisers, as well as QTU Officers who helped us to brainstorm our ideas and options. This program has given me the skills and confidence I need to go back to my school community and continue with positive activism."

Ainslie Fraser: "The NEN experience has been a motivating, educational, and powerful tool in building a collective of competent Union Representatives. It welcomed a broad spectrum, from beginners to more experienced teachers, all with the shared goal of strengthening their skills and understanding of negotiation, communication, and the nature of structures that underpin our department. NENs gained insight into current QTU priorities, member retention and growth, WHS actions, and how to initiate their own campaign in the workplace."