Surviving and Thriving: Positive Veteran Mathematics and Science Teachers in Western Australia

Abstract

This study investigated the characteristics of positive veteran teachers in Western Australia. While research has identified strong professional identity, heightened agency, formal and informal leadership and supportive social networks as characteristics of positive veteran teachers in general, this study sought to determine whether these attributes were also present among the target population. Resulting situational differences informed targeted recommendations to facilitate the progression of today’s novice Mathematics and Science teachers into tomorrow’s positive veterans.