Wellington Secondary College is one of a small number of Australian schools selected to become a "Harvard school". The college has three teams of teachers completing online Harvard courses in coaching, making thinking visible and teaching for understanding.

Twelve staff members will be electronically connected to an instructor and other course participants across the globe.

Head of curriculum Esther Weichert said professional development of teachers was a high priority.

"It is of great importance that the teachers are highly trained and committed to continual improvement and understanding of latest research in the area of education for young people."

Course participant Carol Formosa, who has taught for 17 years, said the course instructor lived in Argentina and other participating teachers were from the US, Singapore and Nairobi.

"It's a great learning opportunity for me to be regularly discussing teaching issues and best practice with international teachers."

Graduate teacher Geoff O'Neill said he was happy to have a chance to gain a global perspective on education.