Relief Teachers
The Australian Education Union covers all teachers, including casual relief teachers. Union officers understand the issues that affect you as they have all worked as teachers, including as a relief teacher.
The Relief Teachers Sub-Branch meets on a regular basis on the Wednesday prior to Branch Council meetings to discuss workplace issues of particular interest to casual relief teachers.
The meeting dates for 2010 will be posted on this page when available
All meetings will be held in MR 7 Centre for Teaching and Learning, Fremantle Drive, Stirling from 4:15-6:00pm.
Click here for the Branch Council meeting dates.
Frequently Asked Questions [from casual relief teacher members]:
How should I expect to be treated when I do casual relief work?
Remember that when you accept a position at a school for a day or more it is reasonable to expect to be treated as an equal partner by the permanent members of staff. Remember that you have been employed to cover a particular teacher’s role, including their playground duties if they were scheduled on such duties. You must be provided with a break - recess and/or lunch – as you would expect if you were a permanent member of the staff. You are not required to work outside the hours of the normal program of the school.
What happens if the school that booked me to work cancels?
Unless the school gives you 24 hours notice that they no longer require you to work, they are required to pay you a minimum 3 hours.
How do I settle into each school at which I’ve been employed?
Get in early enough that you can familiarise yourself with the behaviour management policy and procedures, where resources are kept and your expected duties for the day/s you are at the school. This will also give you time to meet one or two of your colleagues.
Introduce yourself to the AEU Sub-Branch Executive, the Union Councillors and OH&S Representatives. Know what processes you are to follow in the case of an accident or incident. Ensure you fill in an Accident/Incident form if you are involved in any incident. If you require assistance, ask!
What if I am offered a contract after the beginning of the term?
A short term contract runs for more than 20 days but less than a term and there is always a possibility that what begins as casual relief may extend into either a short term or even long term contract. IF that does eventuate, you will have a contract assessment report completed by your supervisor in consultation with you. Make sure you invite them to observe your class/teaching during the period of the contract so they don’t rely on creative writing skills to complete the assessment. Attempt to get involved in the life of the school while you are there also so that you are visible to others outside your sub school or faculty. If you feel a need for additional support or assistance, ask for it.
For further information or advice contact the Organisers through the Union office on 6272-7900.
