The Relief Teacher's Podcast by Tradewind Australia
Episodes
De-escalating difficult situations in schools
24 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
This week on The Relief Teacher Podcast, we tackle one of the most important — and challenging — skills for any CRT: de-escalating difficult situa...
When Tragedy Strikes: Inside a School Community’s Long Road to Recovery
17 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
This week we continue our exploration of what it means to work in schools after traumatic events — but this time, we go deeper. We’re joined by tw...
CRTs Working in Schools During or Post a Traumatic Event
10 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
This week we’re exploring one of the most challenging situations a relief teacher can face: stepping into a school community in the midst of trauma....
What technology do CRTs need as a minimum?
03 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
This week we’re diving into one of the most quietly stressful parts of relief teaching: navigating school technology. From Compass to Google Classro...
Provisional to Full Registration as a CRT – Achieving the near-impossible
24 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
This week on the Relief Teacher Podcast, we’re tackling one of the biggest hurdles in a relief teacher’s career: moving from provisional to full V...
The Daily Organiser - What CRTs Need to Know
17 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
For most relief teachers, the DO is your very first point of contact, the person who decides where you’re needed, how your day will run, and sometim...
Setting yourself up for a good year - Delivering lessons, classroom and student management
10 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Delivering lessons as a CRT can feel daunting—especially when you’re teaching outside your subject area or walking into an unfamiliar school. In t...
Setting yourself up for a good year - How to prepare to succeed
03 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Whether you’re new to CRT work or looking to sharpen your approach, this episode focuses on practical, realistic ways to start the year strong. We t...
The Upside of Being a CRT
27 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
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’r...
TW Bianca Baron
20 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we speak with Bianca Baron, Tradewind’s National Early Years Manager, about the wide range of opportunities for teachers and educat...
TW Brad Flowers
13 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we take a behind-the-scenes look at Tradewind with senior consultant Brad Flowers, who supports teachers and education support staff ...
TW Clare Wilson
06 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
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 spe...
TW Taylor Roche
30 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
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 ...
Relief Teacher Podcast Christmas Special!
23 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
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 e...
So you have landed a job – what now? Getting Ready for a New School Year
16 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
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 l...
Bullying - Guest - Ian Findlay
09 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This week the panel speaks with author and bullying expert Ian Findlay. For decades Ian has worked with schools, families, bullies and...
Bullying
02 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This week, we dive into the newly released National Standard on Addressing Bullying in Australian Schools—a major step toward creating consiste...
Inside Emerson School – you will be amazed!
25 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This week, we visit Emerson Specialist School and chat with Campus Principal Dianne Wright. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like ...
Beating Burnout
18 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
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...
Breaking Down the Myths – Working in the North
11 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
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 thi...
Term 4 Opportunities! Have you ever thought of becoming…?
04 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
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...
Managing Challenging Student Behaviours
28 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Managing challenging student behaviour can be one of the toughest parts of relief teaching — especially when students come with a mix of diagnosed a...
Part 3 – The Way Forward
21 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
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 ...
Part 2 – How Did We End Up Here?
14 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
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, fu...
Part 1 – The Challenges
07 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Schools across Victoria and Australia are grappling with some of the toughest conditions in decades: teacher shortages and retention battles, falling ...
Yesodei HaTorah - Teaching in an Orthodox Jewish School
16 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This week we continue our series exploring non-mainstream schools where relief teachers can find rewarding opportunities. In our first episode, we vis...
Teaching in non-government schools and alternative settings
09 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
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. Thi...
Job Hunting Season
02 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
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?&...
Relief Teaching and Managing Your Own Wellbeing
26 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Relief teaching can be unpredictable - one day you’re in a calm and cooperative classroom, the next you’re managing high stress, tricky behaviours...
Don’t Be THAT Relief Teacher
19 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Not all relief teachers leave a good impression - and schools notice. In this episode, we explore the habits and behaviours that make principals and s...
From Casual to Committed?
12 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
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...
When It All Hits the Fan - CRTs in the Hot Seat
05 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
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 d...
Behind the Scenes: What CRTs Need to Know
29 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
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 ...
It Takes a Village - Why Relationships Matter in Schools
22 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
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 su...
How to Assess a School: What School is Right for You?
01 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
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...
Flexibility - A Relief Teacher’s Superpower
24 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we dive into one of the greatest strengths of relief teachers: flexibility. From last-minute schedule changes to walking into unfamil...
How to Pace Yourself as a CRT
17 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
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 s...
What does it all mean? Acronyms and Abbreviations
10 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
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 M...
Don’t Turn a Blind Eye - OHS Matters and Incidents CRTs Need to Address
03 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we explore why casual relief teachers must never ignore incidents or OHS issues in schools. Beyond teaching, relief teachers play a v...
The Hester Hornbrook Academy - Alternative Settings for Secondary Students
27 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
With more and more secondary students choosing alternative settings as opposed to mainstream schools, this week’s podcast visits one such school, th...
Behaviour Management – When to Intervene, When to Give Time and Space
20 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Whether you're a seasoned relief teacher or stepping into the classroom for the first time, one of the biggest challenges is managing student behaviou...
CRTs and Parents
13 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
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...
What tech do you need, and what to do if it fails…
06 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
One of the greatest sources of frustration for CRTs is managing technology in the various schools. You may be a tech-wizard but no matter how adv...
Expulsion and Suspension
29 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
It is not unusual for CRTs to encounter significant behavioural challenges in schools. And at times it seems that some student behaviours push the bou...
The Victorian Teaching and Learning Model 2.0
22 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
The VTLM 2.0, an updated educational framework for Victorian government schools, focuses on evidence-based teaching practices based on cognitive scien...
Challenging Student Behaviours and How to Cope as a CRT
01 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Working as a CRT is often challenging and this can be exacerbated when you have students in classrooms with specific learning and behavioural needs.&n...
Working with Education Support Staff
25 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
It is not unusual for a CRT to work alongside one or a number of Education Support Staff in classrooms. Understanding the role of an ES, and bein...
What Not To Talk About in Classrooms
18 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Relief teaching can be hard work and from time to time we all have difficult days. Sometimes unfortunately, and unwittingly, CRTS can find themse...
Working in Specialist Settings - Jacana School for Autism
11 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Many relief teachers are hesitant to work in specialist settings, not due to a lack of interest or care, but often because they are uncertain about th...
Synthetic Phonics – What You Need to Know as a CRT
04 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In 2025 every Victorian Government school, and all Catholic schools, will teach synthetic phonics in the lower grades as part of their literacy progra...
Your CRT Toolkit
25 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In an ideal world every CRT would arrive early at a school to find the timetable, lessons, resources and behaviour management plans all perfectly laid...
What We Wish I Had Known in Our First Year of Teaching
18 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
When it comes to working in schools is there anything more challenging, exhausting and hopefully enjoyable than your first year of teaching? So much t...
The CRT Podcast: CRTs on Working in School
11 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
What is it really like working as a CRT? What really matters? What are the challenges and the pitfalls? What about the positives and the rewards? This...
Putting Together Your CRT Checklist
04 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Like all teaching, whether you are working full-time or just a day a week, the success is all in the planning. With CRTs coming across so many differe...
Behind the Mic: Sue Muir
28 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this 5-minute episode, we meet Sue Muir, an experienced educator and panellist on the Relief Teacher Podcast.Sue takes us through her career journe...
Behind the Mic: Terry Twomey
21 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this 5-minute episode, we meet Terry Twomey, a former principal turned passionate advocate for CRTs.Terry shares his journey from teaching humaniti...
Behind the Mic: Helen Thomaidis
14 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this 5-minute episode, we meet Helen Thomaidis, a long-time educator and co-host of The Relief Teacher Podcast.Helen reflects on her teaching journ...
Behind the Mic: Billy Green
07 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this 5 minute episode we meet the host of The Relief Teachers Podcast, Billy Green! Billy reflects on his journey into education and his...
Building Relationships in Schools
17 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
As a relief teacher you can find yourself somewhat isolated as you move from school to school. Professionally and even emotionally this is not id...
Maintaining Professional Development
10 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Teachers in Victoria are required to engage in professional learning each year as part of their registration with the Victorian Institute of Teaching ...
Beyond the Classroom: Teaching in Rural and Regional Australia
04 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Demand for teachers in rural and regional areas right across Australia has never been higher. Incentive schemes offer significant financial rewar...
From Chaos to Calm: Classroom Management Tips for Relief Teachers
26 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Classroom management strategies are crucial for creating an effective learning environment. As a CRT you need to be aware of the techniques that ...
Special Days, Big Impact: How Relief Teachers Can Make the Most of School Celebrations
19 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
It is common for schools to celebrate or commemorate important days throughout the year. As a CRT these days might seem a little confusing or not...
Self-Care After a Difficult Day
12 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Relief teaching can be hard work and from time to time we all have difficult days. How do you look after your own welfare if you have had a chall...
Managing Specialist Classes
05 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
It is not unusual as a CRT you are asked to take classes outside your area of expertise. In a primary school you may be asked to teach LOTE for a...
The 10 essential traits and skills for CRTs
29 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
This week’s podcast discusses the key traits schools are looking for not just in relief teachers but in teachers at all levels. What do teacher...
What to expect when you graduate
22 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
This week the panel discusses the adjustments graduate teachers will need to make when they take on their first teaching roles in schools. The tr...
What to do if you are asked to write reports
15 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Relief teachers who gain short term contracts are often expected as part of their role to write student reports. In some ways this can seem like a dau...
Strategies for handling challenging situations in schools. How to deescalate and record to best protect yourself.
08 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Occasionally relief teachers are confronted with challenging situations in schools that require immediate action. This week’s podcast highlight...
Preparing for Interviews
17 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Many applicants are daunted, even overwhelmed by the prospect of a job interview, fearing they won’t be able to give a good account of themselves.&n...
R U OK? Day
10 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
This week’s podcast focusses on wellbeing – both students and staff, and most importantly on your own wellbeing as a CRT. With R U OK Day app...
Webinar Highlight: Perfecting Your Application
03 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Webinar Highlight: Perfecting Your Application One of the difficult tasks in the application process is the CV and Cover Letter. As there is no s...
How to give feedback to schools
27 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Occasionally as a CRT you will come across a situation in a school that is not ideal. As a professional you will feel it is your responsibility t...
Anaphylaxis and Other Emergency Procedures
20 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Dealing with critical incidents and emergencies for any teacher can be demanding, confronting and highly stressful. For relief teachers in unfami...
What schools are right for you?
13 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Not all schools are created equally. In Victoria we have a vast range of schools many with different values, approaches and clientele. How d...
Mandatory Reporting and Managing Serious Student Welfare Matters
06 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this week’s podcast the panel discuss the serious matter of Mandatory Reporting and other issues related to student welfare.It is possible a reli...
How to impress as a CRT?
30 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this week’s podcast the panel discuss how relief teachers can impress and maximise their chance of being a regular at a school or indeed be asked...
Returning to the classroom after a significant break
23 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Episode Two - Returning to the classroom after a significant break In this week’s podcast the panel are once again joined by Tradewind con...
Setting Yourself up for a Successful Term 3
16 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this week’s podcast the panel are joined by Tradewind consultant Clare Wilson to discuss all things Term 3. Why is term three typically the ...
Applying for a Teaching Role: Key Selection Criteria
14 Jul 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Applying for a Teaching Role: Key Selection Criteria Areas covered in this episode:The challenges of completing KSCWhere to startHow to divide KS...
CRT: How to make a positive impact every day
09 Mar 2021
Contributed by Lukas
CRT: How to make a positive impact every day Schools expect a relief teacher to be able to make a positive impact on their students every day. Bu...
I’m a New Grad. Where do I start?
09 Mar 2021
Contributed by Lukas
I’m a New Grad. Where do I start? Being a newly qualified teacher brings both excitement and apprehension. Whether you have secured a role, or ...
CRT Classroom Management: The Essentials
09 Mar 2021
Contributed by Lukas
CRT Classroom Management: The EssentialsEvery day as a relief teacher presents different challenges. Knowing the essential steps to take will enable y...
Teaching in a Primary School: An Introduction
09 Mar 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Teaching in a Primary School: An Introduction Schools expect a relief teacher to be able to make a positive impact on their students every day. &...
Tough Schools: How to thrive in a challenging environment.
09 Mar 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Tough Schools. How to thrive in a challenging environment.Schools expect a relief teacher to be able to make a positive impact on their students every...
Teaching in a Specialist School: An introduction
09 Mar 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Teaching in a Specialist School: An introduction Schools expect a relief teacher to be able to make a positive impact on their students every day...
Applying for a Teaching Role: The Interview
09 Mar 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Applying for a Teaching Role: The Interview Schools expect a relief teacher to be able to make a positive impact on their students every day. &n...
Applying for a Teaching Role: CV and Cover Letter
09 Mar 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Applying for a Teaching Role: CV and Cover Letter One of the difficult tasks in the application process is the CV and Cover Letter. As there is n...
Applying for a Teaching Role: The Essentials
09 Mar 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Applying for a Teaching Role: The Essentials The application process in education can be a daunting one. To help you get started, this podcast wi...
CRT: Accepting Feedback and Professional Growth
09 Mar 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Accepting Feedback and Professional GrowthSeeking, accepting and acting on feedback is a critical part of every teacher’s role. As a CRT...
CRT: Roles, Responsibilities and Requirements
09 Mar 2021
Contributed by Lukas
CRT: Roles, Responsibilities and Requirements As a CRT, you have all the responsibilities and requirements of a full time teacher. But what are t...
CRT: How to stand out from the crowd
09 Mar 2021
Contributed by Lukas
CRT: How to stand out from the crowdRelief teaching is a wonderful opportunity to improve your career opportunities and open the door to a new job if ...