Suzanne Hudson

Suzanne Hudson serves as School Director of Professional Experience at Southern Cross University, with over 30 years of experience in teaching and teacher education. She leads research initiatives focused on improving teacher preparation and supporting new educators through their professional transition.

Her research interests center on alternative models of initial teacher education, particularly through her leadership of the Teacher Education Done Differently (TEDD) project which investigated blending school-based learning experiences with university studies. Her work examines mentoring of preservice teachers and beginning teachers, investigating how the transition to teaching can be made more effective to better support new teachers and ultimately the students in their care.

Dr. Hudson was awarded an Office of Learning and Teaching (OLT) award and citation for her contributions to teacher education. Her research has practical applications for improving teacher retention, with findings published in academic outlets including The Conversation.

• Office of Learning and Teaching (OLT) award
• Citation for excellence in teacher education

As Director of Professional Experience, Hudson oversees programs connecting university teacher education with practical school experiences. Her current research focuses on supporting new teachers through effective mentoring and induction programs, with findings indicating that structured support systems can significantly improve teacher retention beyond the challenging first five years of the profession.