The Relief Teacher's Podcast by Tradewind Australia

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 Opportunity

Professional learning may include:

•seminars, conferences, workshops and online...

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 Opportunity

Professional learning may include:

•seminars, con...

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 sch...

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...

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...

Relief teaching can be unpredictable - one day you’re in a calm and cooperative classroom, the next you’re managing high stress, tricky behaviours, and challenging incidents. This week, we’re talking about how to protect your own wellbeing when classrooms get tough, when incidents arise out of nowhere and you are left to manage, not just the circumstances but your own wellbeing. From quick reset strategies to long-term self-ca...

Not all relief teachers leave a good impression - and schools notice. In this episode, we explore the habits and behaviours that make principals and staff quietly decide never to call some teachers back. From disengagement in the classroom to ignoring school culture, we’ll unpack the “don’ts” every relief teacher should avoid if they want to be respected, remembered, and rebooked.

• Why reliability matters more than “winging i...

In this episode, we explore what happens when a Casual Relief Teacher (CRT) is asked to step into a permanent role. 

Should you say yes? 

What questions should you ask first? 

Join us as we unpack the key considerations - from workload and pay to team culture, long-term expectations, and how the shift might impact your lifestyle and wellbeing. Whether you’re flattered, flustered, or firmly on the fence, this...

As a CRT, you never know what your day might throw at you — a playground incident, a lockdown drill, a missing student, or a furious parent at the door. How do you respond calmly, professionally, and confidently when you're not even sure where the staffroom is?

In this episode, our panel of experienced teachers role-play real-life school incidents and unpack the thinking behind quick, clear decision-making under pressure. Learn ...

Ever wondered why your class changed at the last minute? Or why that Year 2 class is now mixed with Year 1s? In this episode we pull back the curtain on the behind-the-scenes decisions that shape your day as a Casual Relief Teacher.

From how schools are funded, to the reasons for split classes, timetable shifts, and why no two schools run the same way—we break it all down. If you've ever asked “What’s really going on here?” this...

In this episode, we explore the power and importance of forming relationships in schools when you are working as a CRT. From classroom teachers and support staff to parents and the wider community, strong connections create the foundation for student success and your own wellbeing. Join us as we unpack the reasons why building these relationships isn’t just nice - it’s necessary - and how they can transform your experience as a rel...

Relief teaching offers a unique window into the culture, values, and vibe of different schools -but how can you use that insight to find a place you'd love work at more permanently?

If you are looking for longer term employment but aren’t sure how to determine if a school is right for you, this episode is a must listen.

We explore practical tips for assessing schools while on the job, helping relief teachers identify environments whe...

In this episode, we dive into one of the greatest strengths of relief teachers: flexibility. From last-minute schedule changes to walking into unfamiliar classrooms, adaptability is key to thriving in this dynamic role. Join us as we explore how flexibility shapes the relief teaching experience—and why it's more than just going with the flow.

Professional Development Opportunity

Professional learning may include:

•seminars...

In this week’s podcast we are focusing on survival!

CRT work can be exhausting so how do you survive a busy term without running out of steam? From saying "no" without guilt to finding little rewards along the way, we’ve got practical tips and a few laughs to help you stay cool, calm, and well, more or less energised.

Tune in and treat yourself to some well-earned teacher RESPECT!

Professional Development Opportunity

Pr...

Ever feel like you need an interpreter just to understand what's going on in the world of education? Join us this week as we work out "What's It All Mean?" The panel will bravely and joyfully unravel the mysteries of educational abbreviations and acronyms. From NAPLAN to VCE, and everything in between, we'll help you decipher the alphabet soup of academia. You might even learn something! So tune in, unleash your inner-bureaucrat an...

In this episode, we explore why casual relief teachers must never ignore incidents or OHS issues in schools. Beyond teaching, relief teachers play a vital role in spotting hazards, reporting risks, and ensuring a safe environment for students and staff. Tune in to learn how their vigilance helps protect everyone and supports a culture of safety in schools.

Professional Development Opportunity

Professional learning may include...

With more and more secondary students choosing alternative settings as opposed to mainstream schools, this week’s podcast visits one such school, the Hester Hornbrook Academy, right in the heart of Melbourne. We meet with the school principal to discuss innovative approaches, hear from dedicated educators, and gain practical insights into supporting students in specialized environments. Join us to gain a deeper understanding of the...

Whether you're a seasoned relief teacher or stepping into the classroom for the first time, one of the biggest challenges is managing student behaviour — especially when you don’t know the group well.

In this episode, we dive into the art (and science) of behaviour management from the perspective of a relief teacher.

When is the right time to step in?

When should you pause and allow space for students to self-regulate?

How do y...

It is not unusual for teachers working in schools to have significant contact with parents. This is particularly the case if you are working in a primary setting. But for CRTs, dealing with parents can be initially quite confronting. How do you develop a sound and productive relationship with a parent? How do you discuss student learning in a professional and constructive manner? What are some situations that co...