Bringing drama to the classroom

With an impressive performing arts resume behind him, teacher-in-training Tim is quashing the idea that "those who can't do, teach"

Tim grew up with musical theatre, with a talent for singing, dancing and acting. Like many aspiring performers with big dreams, Tim moved over to the US to pursue a career in the arts. Over time, he landed himself roles in off-Broadway plays, and worked for iconic brands like Disney. It was in Utah that he met the woman he now calls his wife, and so the two of them settled down to raise a family.

teaching secondary education student tim cooper choreograph
Tim - Studied the Masters of Teaching (Secondary Education) through Open Universities Australia.

Years passed, and the pair made a plan to move back to Australia, which got Tim thinking about a new career path to pursue while there. With the plan to step back from performing anyway, Tim warmed to the idea of teaching, which he’d always had a curiosity for. He already had a Bachelor of Arts up his sleeve, but needed to re-train quickly with minimal impact on his income stream. Online study suited him perfectly, allowing him to study while performing in shows. He enrolled in a Master of Teaching (Secondary Education) with Curtin University, online through OUA.

teaching secondary education student tim cooper looking at notebook

“My Master’s degree is providing me with the skills, the attributes and the knowledge to know how to better manage a classroom,” says Tim “and to know how to better differentiate my teaching styles to meet my students’ needs.” He’s loved the course so far, and despite its online delivery, he still gets the opportunity to go on teaching placements. Riverton High School in Utah welcomed him onboard for a placement focused on musical theatre. He plans to specialise in drama teaching, as well as become qualified to teach physical education and social sciences.

teaching secondary education student tim cooper teaching

“I love connecting with people, I love energising people as well” Tim smiles. Working with young people in particular brings back memories of his positive experiences throughout high school. Tim hopes to instil confidence in his students, and allow them to cherish their formative years as much as he did. 

Related courses through OUA:

Bachelor of Education (Secondary Education) – Curtin University

Graduate Certificate in Training and Development – Griffith University

Master of Education – Griffith University

Master of Educational Leadership – Australian Catholic University

Browse  thousands of courses from leading Australian universities.

Or complete the form on this page to chat to an advisor about study options.

Explore courses

Keep exploring

3 avenues in human rights, as explored by students

Does a career spent working for the rights of those around you set your heart ablaze? You might be cut out for a course in human rights. Shiree, Debbie and Alice studied related fields.  

Career spotlightMake a difference

3 essential soft skills you’ll need in the future workplace

As workplaces evolve, there's a growing demand for certain skills—and they're not all digital. Discover which human-centric skills you'll need to thrive in the office of the future. 

Future of work

3 fascinating forensics jobs in Australia

Thinking about forensics as a career? For true crime junkies and self-confessed science geeks with a penchant for justice, it might seem like the perfect choice. But what does it take to work in forensics, and what jobs are on offer in Australia?

Career spotlightMake a difference

3 reasons you’ll need human-centric skills for the future

While AI is becoming more prevalent, machines simply can't replicate the human touch.

Job tipsFuture of work