First-year teacher Julia Graham is fulfilling her dreams of teaching in her home town of Rockhampton after completing a Bachelor of Learning Management (Primary) degree at Central Queensland University.

Inspired as a young child to follow in her mother's footsteps as a teacher, Julia never at any stage contemplated a different vocation.

"I have always wanted to be a teacher ... I was inspired by my mother who is also a teacher - ironically at the same school I now teach at," Julia explained.

Julia completed her BLM degree last year and since has been employed at Rockhampton secondary school Emmaus College, teaching years 8 and 9.

Julia feels blessed and fortunate that she was able to stay in Rockhampton, where she grew up, and work in Catholic education.

"I particularly wanted to teach at a Catholic school as I have seen first-hand the benefits of a Catholic education which provides for the holistic needs of the individual, not simply the academic needs.” .

Julia attended Catholic primary and secondary schools in Roma and Rockhampton and in fact attended Emmaus College, graduating in 2000.

"There is a definite feeling of community here at Emmaus and the staff are very supportive. I am really enjoying all aspects of teaching – the students are great too which really helps.".

Julia also speaks highly of her education experience at CQU.

"I really enjoyed studying at CQU. The lecturers and tutors were always very helpful and encouraging, many offering out-of-hours help if we needed it.

"I particularly liked the limited contact hours which enabled and promoted practical experience in the classroom. The practical programs at different schools gave me the opportunity to gain knowledge of and practise a variety of useful classroom tactics and strategies. This has helped me cater for the diverse needs of students.

"CQU also gave me the opportunity to complete the four-year degree in just three years by taking extra courses each term and enrolling in Spring/Summer courses.".

CQU's BLM programs include specialised courses in Catholic education, aimed at preparing teachers for Catholic schools.

The BLM degrees were developed in partnership with teachers and principals. Throughout their studies, students are supported by learning managers who are experienced school teachers trained to mentor students.

The BLM is a futures-orientated degree that is dedicated to the graduation of 'classroom ready' teachers who are experts in learning and its management.

Graduates are eligible to teach in all states of Australia and overseas.