Online PD equips casual relief teachers to thrive and survive

In a recent professional development session run by the IEU, approximately 200 members came together online to enhance their skills and knowledge as casual relief teachers.

The session aimed to provide strategies and support to address the unique classroom management challenges faced by these educators, who are always stepping into unfamiliar environments.

Led by David Vinegrad, Director of Behaviour Matters, and a highly experienced educator with 40 years of teaching under his belt, the course focused on three key areas: prevention, response, and resolution of challenging behaviours.

Participants were equipped with valuable behavioural science knowledge and effective student management strategies.

Vinegrad emphasised the importance of effectively managing challenging behaviours in a timely manner to prevent their escalation. It was also stressed that being familiar with the school’s policies is crucial in case situations become difficult to handle.

Additionally, having knowledge of child protection laws was highlighted and as a member of the IEU, casuals can always seek support and guidance from the organisation when dealing with challenging matters.

By offering practical strategies and valuable insights, this session empowered casual relief teachers to thrive in their roles and effectively manage the complexities of being the new face in various classrooms.

Vinegrad also emphasised the significance of early preparation. Casual relief teachers were encouraged to establish a diverse array of engaging resources, especially during their first introduction, to foster a productive and enriching learning environment.

The IEU will offer the course again in November, and final year students and graduate teachers are encouraged to attend.

Get a handle on the Voice: PD opportunity

On 1 August the IEU is offering another online session: Getting a Handle on the Voice Referendum: IEU in conversation with Thomas Mayo and Kerry O’Brien. Mayo and O’Brien will unpack their book

The Voice to Parliament Handbook

The Handbook covers some of the most frequently asked questions about altering the constitution and establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice.

Details: bit.ly/IEUMayoEvent

“Unsurprisingly, there is a crippling workforce shortage in the ECEC sector, with employers unable to recruit and retain staff. The 60 employers participating in this application nationally (with the three unions) want to pursue an enterprise agreement under the new supported bargaining stream. This is a historic step in utilising the new provisions.

“We hope improved pay should flow from this supported bargaining process quite quickly, as well as conditions which provide better access to professional development, so teachers can more easily maintain their accreditation,” Northam said.