Global Perspectives on Initial Teacher Education

Global Perspectives on Initial Teacher Education offers a timely and incisive examination of how teachers are prepared to enter the profession in an increasingly complex world. Bringing together scholars and practitioners from diverse contexts, this volume explores the foundations, pedagogies, and professional identities that shape early teacher formation. Across its three parts, the book illuminates how globalization, technological innovation, inclusive frameworks, and culturally responsive practice redefine the work of preparing future educators.

With attention to assessment, mentoring, instructional design, and the lived experiences of preservice teachers, the volume underscores the need for preparation models that are rigorous, humane, and globally informed. As the inaugural title in a new series on teacher education, it calls for coherent, research-driven approaches that equip new teachers to thrive amid the shifting demands of 21st century classrooms and to contribute to education as a global public good.

Editors, Donna M Velliaris and Antony Nellissery

Donna M Velliaris is a globally recognized educator, author, and speaker acclaimed for her transformative teaching methods and pioneering contributions to education. She holds Graduate Certificates in Australian Studies, Religious Education, and Guidance & Counselling; Graduate Diplomas in Secondary Education and Language & Literacy Education; three Master’s degrees in Educational Sociology, Studies of Asia, and Special Education; and a PhD in Education (2010) focused on the social-educational development of transnational students. Ranked among the Top 30 Global Gurus in Education for three consecutive years—2023 (No. 30), 2024 (No. 22), and 2025 (No. 9)—she is the author of eight books and more than 40 book chapters, as well as a sought-after international speaker committed to advancing education through excellence, innovation, and systemic transformation.

Antony Nellissery is an education reformer with nearly three decades of experience advancing systemic change through school leadership, life-skills curricula, and teacher empowerment. Holding a PhD from Amity University and an alumnus of IRMA, he has worked across schools, foundations, and nonprofits, mentoring more than 200 professionals. Currently Head of the Sterlite EdIndia Foundation, he has been recognized as a Global Goodwill Ambassador, Reformer in Education – Regional (2023), Great Manager to Work With (2023–24), Best CSR Head in the Education Domain (2024), and co-authored The Skills Edge (2021). Guided by his belief that school leadership and trust-building are the cornerstones of lasting transformation, his work is deeply informed by his own experience of a teacher who once transformed his life during a period of struggle.