Rachael Hains-Wesson

Rachael Hains-Wesson has a diverse range of work experience spanning several industries and roles. Rachael began their career as a Leading Paramedic in the Royal Australian Navy, where they provided advanced first aid, emergency care, and nursing services. Following their military service, Rachael worked as a Manager and co-founder of the Theatre-in-Education company Odd Socks Theatre Company, focusing on developing and implementing educational programs for primary and high school students.

Rachael has also held academic positions at various universities. Rachael served as a Lecturer in Blended Learning at Deakin University, specializing in supporting staff and re-imagining assessments for STEM programs. At Swinburne University of Technology, they worked as a Senior Lecturer in Work-Integrated Learning, planning and teaching units of study for The Swinburne Advantage program, including international study tours. Rachael later joined The University of Sydney Business School as an Associate Professor and Director of the Work-Integrated Learning Hub, where they led the expansion of work-integrated learning offerings and conducted research in the field.

In addition to their academic roles, Rachael has been involved in the Higher Education Research and Development community. Rachael has served as a Committee Member and Co-Secretary for the HERDSA NSW Branch, facilitating collaboration and networking among professionals in higher education. Rachael is also a member of the College of Reviewers for the journal Higher Education Research & Development.

Outside of the education sector, Rachael pursued their artistic interests by working as an artist with Bluethumb, focusing on creating fine art pieces that explore themes of strong women and youth. Rachael also undertook international travel to gain cultural experience and volunteered for not-for-profit cultural services in London, Amsterdam, and Israel.

Throughout their career, Rachael has demonstrated a passion for work-integrated learning, curriculum development, and creative expression. Their expertise in these areas has allowed their to contribute to the advancement of higher and tertiary education while also pursuing their artistic endeavors.

Rachael Hains-Wesson has an extensive education history that spans several fields of study.

Rachael started their education journey at Hamilton Senior High School, where they pursued a Secondary degree in Acting and Sport from 1984 to 1988. Following their high school education, they attended Charles Sturt University from 1997 to 1999, where they obtained an Associate Degree in Pre-Hospital Medical Science. During the same period, they also pursued an Associate Diploma in Theatre and Performance Studies at Swinburne University of Technology from 1998 to 2000.

Continuing their academic pursuits, Rachael enrolled at Murdoch University and obtained a Bachelor Degree in English Language and Literature/Letters from 2002 to 2005. Rachael then pursued a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Creative Writing at the University of Melbourne from 2005 to 2007.

Rachael's interest in theater and education led their to pursue a Doctor of Philosophy with a specialization in Theatre in Education (Creative Writing) at The University of Western Australia from 2008 to 2012. Rachael later completed a second Doctor of Philosophy in Education at Deakin University from 2015 to 2021.

In addition to their formal education, Rachael has obtained various certifications and awards throughout their career. Notable certifications include the Australian Awards for University Teaching (AAUT) WIL Hub Team from Universities Australia in 2022, the Senior Fellowship HEA from Advanced Higher Education UK in 2021, and the Senior Fellow, Higher Education Research & Development Society of Australasia from the Higher Education Research and Development in 2021. Rachael has also received additional certifications from LinkedIn and NIDA (National Institute of Dramatic Art).

Furthermore, Rachael has received several awards and recognitions, such as the Postgraduate Students' Association Award from The University of Western Australia in 2009 and the Youth Performing Arts Award at the 2000 Melbourne Fringe Festival. Rachael has also been recognized by The Queen's Trust for Young Australians through The Queen Elizabeth 11 Silver Jubilee Trust for Young Australians in 1999.

Overall, Rachael Hains-Wesson has pursued a diverse and extensive education, encompassing areas such as theater, creative writing, and education. Their commitment to learning is reflected in their multiple degrees, certifications, and awards.