NADPE – The Network of Academic Directors of Professional Experience

The NADPE network meets regularly to support new and established PEX Directors through collaborative initiatives and knowledge sharing across institutions and networks. In October 2025, the network conducted extensive consultation to identify key thematic priorities, resulting in a comprehensive framework for 2026 initiatives. The network has commenced development of a PEX Director induction framework to support professional capacity building for those new to coordination roles.

Based on network feedback from October 2025, NADPE has identified key thematic priorities for 2026:

• Professional Support: Mentor and PEXD development; career advancement (fellowships, promotions, leadership portfolios)
• Research and Collaboration: Scholarship initiatives, interstate and cross-institutional research partnerships
• Policy and Practice: National policy engagement (AITSL, TRB, permission to teach); quality assurance and best practice development
• Workload Recognition: Acknowledging the importance and scope of PEX coordination roles
• Placement Partnerships: Supporting schools and ECEC centres; supervising teacher awards and recognition; international placement opportunities

National Professional Experience Conference – 19-20 February 2026

On 19 and 20 February, NADPE delivered an ACDE-funded national conference of leaders in Professional Experience (PEX) from across all Initial Teacher Education (ITE) providers at RMIT University.

The Chair and Co-Chair, Associate Professor Chrissy Monteleone (La Trobe University) and Associate Professor Rebecca Andrews (Macquarie University) facilitated the program with support from ACDE Vice-President, Professor Simone White (RMIT University).

Forty-two representatives from every state and territory came together to examine the critical role professional experience plays in the current policy and practice landscape. The conference opened with a recorded welcome from Minister Jason Clare who acknowledged the vital role PEX leaders play as boundary crossers between schools, universities and communities. He also highlighted key national priorities including support for mentors and the implementation of core content within PEX assessment.

A series of keynote presentations followed, designed to provoke discussion and collective reflection. Topics included exploring PEX nomenclature; the positioning of professional experience leadership; examining PEX policy settings; supporting mentors and supervisors; innovative practice; integrating evidence, theory and research; and strengthening partnerships with pre-service teachers and stakeholders.

Bringing this national community together has strengthened collective agency and elevated the visibility of those leading professional experience across Australia. The conference was heralded as a huge success – providing vital professional learning, strategic dialogue and connection for leaders central to strengthening the teaching profession.