Casual relief teaching

Casual relief teachers (CRTs) play a critical role in education by being available at very short notice to ensure that schools are able to step in for staff members that are absent from their school. 

This type of employment may suit your lifestyle needs or allow you to determine if teaching at a particular location suits you.

Skills and experience required

A strong resume is essential, generally, preferred CRTs have:

• experience in the class room
• the ability to utilise available resources and be creative
• IT skills
• flexibility and adaptability
• professionalism
• enthusiasm and a sense of humour
• common sense

Current recruitment practices

Agencies

• Be aware of the agency’s fees, and whether a ‘release fee’ needs to be paid by a deadline to obtain work.
• Agencies may have a formal recruitment interview to select candidates, or an informal interview to explain how the agency runs.

Schools

• To register with a school, you can apply online or in writing.
• Principals often request relief teachers that made a good impression.

Department of Education

• Lodge your details in the job seekers’ register (talent pool) through Recruitment Online.
• Principals of Victorian government schools who are searching for staff can access your resume.

What sets one candidate apart from another

• Extra qualifications such as First Aid or a Bus License (PE teachers
• Hobbies/interests outside of their teaching area
• Knowledge about student wellbeing - mandatory reporting/counselling
• Community involvement - paid or voluntary
• Experience - in teaching and outside the class room such as Scout leader, camp facilitator, sports coach
• Overseas teaching experience is looked upon highly
• Experience in a variety of schools
• Personality is central - how CRTs relate in the classroom is important

Tips for seeking CRT positions

• Casual work can open the door to short-term or permanent contracts
• Always be enthusiastic and proactive on your teaching rounds
• Keep up to date with requirements such as VIT registration/police checks
• You need to be passionate and committed about teaching
• Use your teaching practicals to source employment opportunities
• Get as much experience as possible - volunteer
• Network - attend conferences and ask questions
• When applying for work, research the school/agency beforehand

Professional development and support

• The Victorian Institute of Teaching provides professional development via a seminar program and online professional development materials. 
• Some agencies may also provide seminars or resources for their relief teachers registered with them, or a ‘Getting back to teaching’ course for returning and overseas teachers.
• The Australian Education Union Victoria provides information on work conditions for CRT's.