The action research project entitled "Engaging pre-service TESOL teachers in authentic workplace learning" aimed to enhance the TESOL practicum experience of pre-service teachers in the Graduate Diploma of Education at Edith Cowan University in Perth, Western Australia. Integrated into the relevant TESOL curriculum unit was the requirement that pre-service teachers work with a small group of Year 8-10 ESL students for one hour a week for six weeks in a partner school. During this time they conducted a needs analysis with the students, determined proficiency levels against the relevant progress map and then prepared and taught lessons designed to assist the students in their English language development across the four macro skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing. The results of the action research project indicated strong support for this form of authentic workplace learning and the continuation of its integration into the curriculum unit. (Contains 1 table and 2 figures.)