The Relief Teacher's Podcast by Tradewind Australia

Relief teaching often gets framed as the lesser of two options, but that is simply not the case and this week, we flip that narrative. Whether you’re an experienced teacher returning to the classroom, a new graduate finding your feet, or an overseas teacher on a working holiday, being a CRT can offer flexibility, variety, fast skill-building and genuine career momentum. We unpack the real advantages—professional, personal and lifestyle—and share why for many teachers, casual relief work isn’t a compromise at all, but a smart, strategic choice. If you’re curious about CRT life or already living it, this episode will give you fresh perspective and practical reassurance.Professional Development OpportunityProfessional learning may include:•seminars, conferences, workshops and online learning•collegiate meetings and professional conversations focused on improving practice and outcomes for learners•participation in education-related boards, committees or panels.This episode focuses on:Australian Professional Standards for Teachers 4.1 Support student participation 4.2 Manage classroom activities 4.3 Manage challenging behaviour 4.4 Maintain student safety 6.2 Engage in professional learning and improve practice 6.3 Engage with colleagues and improve practice 6.4 Apply professional learning and improve student learning 7.1 Meet professional ethics and responsibilitiesLooking for work? Submit your CV Looking for quality teachers?If you would like to use Tradewind’s teachers in your school, please call 1800 192 195 or send your details to us and we will be in contact shortly. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we speak with Bianca Baron, Tradewind’s National Early Years Manager, about the wide range of opportunities for teachers and educators across early years, kindergartens and OSH care. Bianca also highlights Tradewind’s strong focus on child safety and the growing incentives and career pathways available in regional settings.For anyone interested in the early years sector, this is a must-listen.Looking for work? Submit your CV Looking for quality teachers?If you would like to use Tradewind’s teachers in your school, please call 1800 192 195 or send your details to us and we will be in contact shortly. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we take a behind-the-scenes look at Tradewind with senior consultant Brad Flowers, who supports teachers and education support staff working across alternative education settings. Brad highlights the wide range of opportunities available in specialist schools, special development schools and special assistance schools for disengaged students.If you’re considering expanding your work options in 2026, this episode is the perfect entrée. Tune in—your next career opportunity might be just around the corner.Looking for work? Submit your CV Looking for quality teachers?If you would like to use Tradewind’s teachers in your school, please call 1800 192 195 or send your details to us and we will be in contact shortly. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we take a behind the scenes look at Tradewind and speak to Clare Wilson, senior consultant for Melbourne’s Western Region. Clare speaks about her role as both a consultant working in schools, working to support CRTs and most importantly about how CRTs can maximise their opportunities in 2026. Clare is a former classroom teacher and brings a wealth of experience to the role.Looking for work? Submit your CV Looking for quality teachers?If you would like to use Tradewind’s teachers in your school, please call 1800 192 195 or send your details to us and we will be in contact shortly. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the first of the summer sessions of the Relief Teacher Podcast we speak we turn the mic toward our own producer, Taylor Roche.Taylor shares how he came to Tradewind, what he loves about producing the podcast, and why our outside broadcasts—especially those in alternative settings—are a highlight of his work. He also gives a glimpse into what really makes a podcast successful: genuine passion.A warm, engaging behind-the-scenes conversation you won’t want to miss.Looking for work? Submit your CV Looking for quality teachers?If you would like to use Tradewind’s teachers in your school, please call 1800 192 195 or send your details to us and we will be in contact shortly. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this end-of-year episode, we wrap up the major issues that shaped schools in 2025—from staffing pressures and shifting curriculum priorities to explicit teaching and the growing role of digital literacy. Our panel reflects on what these changes meant for Casual Relief Teachers and how the profession adapted.We also look ahead to 2026: how will the social media ban play out, what will the new EBA mean for teachers and schools, and how will growth corridor schools manage the growing challenges of behaviour and attendance.As well as some tips on making the most of your holidays.Looking for work? Submit your CV Looking for quality teachers?If you would like to use Tradewind’s teachers in your school, please call 1800 192 195 or send your details to us and we will be in contact shortly. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The holidays might be on the horizon, but for teachers, the start of a new school year is looming and it is anything but quiet! This week, we take a look at all the preparation that goes on before students return — from setting up classrooms and unpacking resources in primary schools to meeting colleagues and planning curriculum across both primary and secondary settings. It’s a busy, exciting time — almost as hectic as term itself! Tune in to get an insider’s view of the work that sets the year up for success.Professional Development OpportunityProfessional learning may include:•seminars, conferences, workshops and online learning•collegiate meetings and professional conversations focused on improving practice and outcomes for learners•participation in education-related boards, committees or panels.This episode focuses on:Australian Professional Standards for Teachers1.2       Understand how students learn 2.1       Content and teaching strategies of the teaching area 2.2       Content selection and organisation 2.3       Curriculum, assessment and reporting 3.1       Establish challenging learning goals 3.2       Plan, structure and sequence learning programs 3.4       Select and use resources 4.1       Support student participation 6.3       Engage with colleagues and improve practice 6.4       Apply professional learning and improve student learningLooking for work? Submit your CV Looking for quality teachers?If you would like to use Tradewind’s teachers in your school, please call 1800 192 195 or send your details to us and we will be in contact shortly. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week the panel speaks with author and bullying expert Ian Findlay.  For decades Ian has worked with schools, families, bullies and victims and has vast experience in the field with much to offer. Ian discusses insights from his books Shared Responsibility: Beating Bullying in Australian Schools and his new release The Power Within: Become Bully-Proof, exploring what really works in preventing bullying and supporting young people. We cover:·      What schools often misunderstand about bullying·      How shared responsibility strengthens school culture·      Practical ways to empower students to become “bully-proof” Join us for a compact, insightful conversation for educators and parents alike on a topic that is forever challenging and complex.Professional Development OpportunityProfessional learning may include:•seminars, conferences, workshops and online learning•collegiate meetings and professional conversations focused on improving practice and outcomes for learners•participation in education-related boards, committees or panels.This episode focuses on:Australian Professional Standards for Teachers4.1       Support student participation         4.2       Manage classroom activities4.3       Manage challenging behaviour4.4       Maintain student safety4.5       Use ICT safely, responsibly and ethically7.1       Meet professional ethics and responsibilities7.2       Comply with legislative, administrative and organisational requirementsLooking for work? Submit your CV Looking for quality teachers?If you would like to use Tradewind’s teachers in your school, please call 1800 192 195 or send your details to us and we will be in contact shortly. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we dive into the newly released National Standard on Addressing Bullying in Australian Schools—a major step toward creating consistent, confident responses to bullying nationwide.We have a closer look at·      What the National Standard is and why it matters·      How it sets shared expectations for all schools·      How to define bullying and other harmful behaviours·      What the Standard means for teachers, CRTs and school leaders·      How it supports schools to take clear, appropriate action to keep students safeA short, sharp episode explaining how this new framework will shape school culture, student wellbeing and everyday practice across Australia.Professional Development OpportunityProfessional learning may include:•seminars, conferences, workshops and online learning•collegiate meetings and professional conversations focused on improving practice and outcomes for learners•participation in education-related boards, committees or panels.This episode focuses on:Australian Professional Standards for Teachers4.1       Support student participation     4.2       Manage classroom activities4.3       Manage challenging behaviour4.4       Maintain student safety4.5       Use ICT safely, responsibly and ethically7.1       Meet professional ethics and responsibilities7.2       Comply with legislative, administrative and organisational requirementsLooking for work? Submit your CV Looking for quality teachers?If you would like to use Tradewind’s teachers in your school, please call 1800 192 195 or send your details to us and we will be in contact shortly. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we visit Emerson Specialist School and chat with Campus Principal Dianne Wright. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to work in a specialist school — or thought it might not be for you — this episode is a must-listen. Emerson is a remarkable place that breaks down barriers and challenges the myths, giving every student the best possible opportunities to thrive. Tune in to find out more — you’ll be amazed!Professional Development OpportunityProfessional learning may include:•seminars, conferences, workshops and online learning•collegiate meetings and professional conversations focused on improving practice and outcomes for learners•participation in education-related boards, committees or panels.This episode focuses on:Australian Professional Standards for Teachers1.1       Physical, social and intellectual development and characteristics of students 1.2       Understand how students learn 1.3       Students with diverse linguistic, cultural, religious and socioeconomic backgrounds 1.5       Differentiate teaching to meet the specific learning needs of students across the full range of abilities 1.6       Strategies to support full participation of students with disability 2.5       Literacy and numeracy strategies 3.1       Establish challenging learning goals 3.2       Plan, structure and sequence learning programs 3.5       Use effective classroom communication 4.1       Support student participation            4.2       Manage classroom activities 6.2       Engage in professional learning and improve practice 6.3       Engage with colleagues and improve practiceLooking for work? Submit your CV Looking for quality teachers?If you would like to use Tradewind’s teachers in your school, please call 1800 192 195 or send your details to us and we will be in contact shortly. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Teacher burnout is real — and it’s on the rise. This week, we take a closer look at the causes of burnout, share practical strategies to prevent it, and explore what to do if it’s already affecting you. Whether you’re a seasoned CRT or new to the classroom, this episode is packed with insights and ideas to help you stay balanced, energised, and thriving in your work.Professional Development OpportunityProfessional learning may include:•seminars, conferences, workshops and online learning•collegiate meetings and professional conversations focused on improving practice and outcomes for learners•participation in education-related boards, committees or panels.This episode focuses on:Australian Professional Standards for Teachers4.1       Support student participation            4.2       Manage classroom activities 4.3       Manage challenging behaviour 4.4       Maintain student safety 6.1       Identify and plan professional learning needs 6.2       Engage in professional learning and improve practice 6.3       Engage with colleagues and improve practice 7.1       Meet professional ethics and responsibilities 7.2       Comply with legislative, administrative and organisational requirements 7.4       Engage with professional teaching networks and broader communitiesLooking for work? Submit your CV Looking for quality teachers?If you would like to use Tradewind’s teachers in your school, please call 1800 192 195 or send your details to us and we will be in contact shortly. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Some areas of Melbourne are harder to staff than others, and many CRTs can feel unsure about taking on what seems like a challenging placement. In this episode, we visit Dallas Brooks Community Primary School in Melbourne’s north and chat with the two Assistant Principals — and what a revelation it is! If you’ve ever wondered whether working in the north might be for you, this episode is a must-listen as we break down the barriers, bust the myths, and discover what really makes this school community tick.  How could you not give this school a go!Professional Development OpportunityProfessional learning may include:•seminars, conferences, workshops and online learning•collegiate meetings and professional conversations focused on improving practice and outcomes for learners•participation in education-related boards, committees or panels.This episode focuses on:Australian Professional Standards for Teachers1.3    Students with diverse linguistic, cultural, religious and socioeconomic backgrounds1.5    Differentiate teaching to meet the specific learning needs of students across the full range of abilities2.5    Literacy and numeracy strategies2.6    Information and Communication Technology (ICT)3.5    Use effective classroom communication4.1    Support student participation4.2    Manage classroom activities6.3    Engage with colleagues and improve practice7.4    Engage with professional teaching networks and broader communitiesLooking for work? Submit your CV Looking for quality teachers?If you would like to use Tradewind’s teachers in your school, please call 1800 192 195 or send your details to us and we will be in contact shortly. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As Term 4 rolls around, CRT work in secondary schools can dry up — but there’s another way to stay busy (and paid!). In this episode, we chat with a VCE exam supervisor to uncover what the role involves, how to get started, and what to expect on the job. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like behind the scenes during exam season, this episode has all you need to know!  And let’s face it, who wouldn’t want a role with a job title like invigilator!Professional Development OpportunityProfessional learning may include:•seminars, conferences, workshops and online learning•collegiate meetings and professional conversations focused on improving practice and outcomes for learners•participation in education-related boards, committees or panels.This episode focuses on:Australian Professional Standards for Teachers2.3    Curriculum, assessment and reporting4.1    Support student participation4.2    Manage classroom activities6.3    Engage with colleagues and improve practice7.2    Comply with legislative, administrative and organisational requirementsLooking for work? Submit your CV Looking for quality teachers?If you would like to use Tradewind’s teachers in your school, please call 1800 192 195 or send your details to us and we will be in contact shortly. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Managing challenging student behaviour can be one of the toughest parts of relief teaching — especially when students come with a mix of diagnosed and undiagnosed needs. In this episode, we unpack practical strategies to help you stay calm, confident, and in control.From understanding the underlying causes of behaviour to using proactive routines and simple relationship-building techniques, we explore what really works in the classroom. Whether you’re facing students with autism, ADHD, trauma backgrounds, or just big personalities, this episode will help you teach with empathy, authority, and balance — even on your first day in a new school.Professional Development OpportunityProfessional learning may include:•seminars, conferences, workshops and online learning•collegiate meetings and professional conversations focused on improving practice and outcomes for learners•participation in education-related boards, committees or panels.This episode focuses on:Australian Professional Standards for Teachers1.2 Understand how students learn1.3 Students with diverse linguistic, cultural, religious and socioeconomic backgrounds2.1 Content and teaching strategies of the teaching area 4.1 Support student participation4.2 Manage classroom activities4.3 Manage challenging behaviour4.4 Maintain student safety7.4 Engage with professional teaching networks and broader communitiesLooking for work? Submit your CV Looking for quality teachers?If you would like to use Tradewind’s teachers in your school, please call 1800 192 195 or send your details to us and we will be in contact shortly. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the last of our three-part look at the challenges facing we note it is not all doom and gloom. There are solutions; what might these be? Join the Relief Teacher podcast as we discus fresh ideas, proven strategies and bold reforms that might make schools sustainable, supportive and inspiring places to work and learn again.Professional Development OpportunityProfessional learning may include:•seminars, conferences, workshops and online learning•collegiate meetings and professional conversations focused on improving practice and outcomes for learners•participation in education-related boards, committees or panels.This episode focuses on:Australian Professional Standards for Teachers1.2 Understand how students learn1.3 Students with diverse linguistic, cultural, religious and socioeconomic backgrounds2.1 Content and teaching strategies of the teaching area 4.1 Support student participation4.2 Manage classroom activities4.3 Manage challenging behaviour4.4 Maintain student safety7.4 Engage with professional teaching networks and broader communitiesLooking for work? Submit your CV Looking for quality teachers?If you would like to use Tradewind’s teachers in your school, please call 1800 192 195 or send your details to us and we will be in contact shortly. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Each week we unpack the bigger picture and in this second of a three-part series on the challenges facing schools, we look at how policy decisions, funding gaps, shifting student needs, and system pressures combined to create today’s challenges. When and how did working in schools become so challenging?Professional Development OpportunityProfessional learning may include:•seminars, conferences, workshops and online learning•collegiate meetings and professional conversations focused on improving practice and outcomes for learners•participation in education-related boards, committees or panels.This episode focuses on:Australian Professional Standards for Teachers1.2 Understand how students learn1.3 Students with diverse linguistic, cultural, religious and socioeconomic backgrounds2.1 Content and teaching strategies of the teaching area 4.1 Support student participation4.2 Manage classroom activities4.3 Manage challenging behaviour4.4 Maintain student safety7.4 Engage with professional teaching networks and broader communitiesLooking for work? Submit your CV Looking for quality teachers?If you would like to use Tradewind’s teachers in your school, please call 1800 192 195 or send your details to us and we will be in contact shortly. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Schools across Victoria and Australia are grappling with some of the toughest conditions in decades: teacher shortages and retention battles, falling attendance, student wellbeing concerns, behaviour management struggles, and a curriculum that feels overloaded. This podcast takes a practical look at what’s really happening on the ground.Professional Development OpportunityProfessional learning may include:•seminars, conferences, workshops and online learning•collegiate meetings and professional conversations focused on improving practice and outcomes for learners•participation in education-related boards, committees or panels.This episode focuses on:Australian Professional Standards for Teachers1.2 Understand how students learn1.3 Students with diverse linguistic, cultural, religious and socioeconomic backgrounds2.1 Content and teaching strategies of the teaching area 4.1 Support student participation4.2 Manage classroom activities4.3 Manage challenging behaviour4.4 Maintain student safety7.4 Engage with professional teaching networks and broader communitiesLooking for work? Submit your CV Looking for quality teachers?If you would like to use Tradewind’s teachers in your school, please call 1800 192 195 or send your details to us and we will be in contact shortly. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we continue our series exploring non-mainstream schools where relief teachers can find rewarding opportunities. In our first episode, we visited Jacana School for Autism. In the second, we explored the Hester Hornbrook Academy. And now, in the third, we step inside Yesodei HaTorah, an Orthodox Jewish secondary campus.We’ll hear what makes this learning environment unique, the values and traditions that shape daily school life, and what relief teachers need to know if they’re considering work in such a setting.Join us as we broaden the picture of where teaching can take you - beyond the mainstream and into diverse, meaningful contexts.Professional Development OpportunityProfessional learning may include:•seminars, conferences, workshops and online learning•collegiate meetings and professional conversations focused on improving practice and outcomes for learners•participation in education-related boards, committees or panels.This episode focuses on:Australian Professional Standards for Teachers1.3    Students with diverse linguistic, cultural, religious and socioeconomic backgrounds6.3    Engage with colleagues and improve practice7.1    Meet professional ethics and responsibilities7.4    Engage with professional teaching networks and broader communitiesLooking for work? Submit your CV Looking for quality teachers?If you would like to use Tradewind’s teachers in your school, please call 1800 192 195 or send your details to us and we will be in contact shortly. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

During some periods of the year relief teacher work is scarce so at times it may be useful to look at school settings outside the norm.  This week on the relief teacher podcats we explore the wide range of opportunities beyond the government system. From independent and faith-based schools to alternative education settings, we’ll unpack what’s on offer, how to get your foot in the door, and what to expect if you step into these unique environments. Whether you’re looking for variety, new challenges, or a different fit for your teaching style, this episode will broaden your horizons.Professional Development OpportunityProfessional learning may include:•seminars, conferences, workshops and online learning•collegiate meetings and professional conversations focused on improving practice and outcomes for learners•participation in education-related boards, committees or panels.This episode focuses on:Australian Professional Standards for Teachers7.1    Meet professional ethics and responsibilities7.4    Engage with professional teaching networks and broader communitiesLooking for work? Submit your CV Looking for quality teachers?If you would like to use Tradewind’s teachers in your school, please call 1800 192 195 or send your details to us and we will be in contact shortly. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With 2026 on the horizon and schools already advertising a wave of positions, many CRTs are asking: Is now the time to move into a school-based role? In this episode, our panel unpacks the key factors to consider before making the shift — from workload and wellbeing to leadership support, school culture, career progression, and the balance between stability and flexibility. If you’ve been thinking about applying for a role, but aren’t sure which position or setting is right for you, this conversation will help you weigh up your options and make a confident choice.Professional Development OpportunityProfessional learning may include:•seminars, conferences, workshops and online learning•collegiate meetings and professional conversations focused on improving practice and outcomes for learners•participation in education-related boards, committees or panels.This episode focuses on:Australian Professional Standards for Teachers7.1    Meet professional ethics and responsibilities7.4    Engage with professional teaching networks and broader communitiesLooking for work? Submit your CV Looking for quality teachers?If you would like to use Tradewind’s teachers in your school, please call 1800 192 195 or send your details to us and we will be in contact shortly. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.