The Relief Teacher's Podcast by Tradewind Australia

Tradewind Australia

This is Australia's leading podcast dedicated to Casual Relief Teachers. Relief teachers are tasked with providing a seamless transition for students when their usual teacher is away. However, they face many challenges each day and often find it difficult to access high quality professional development. This podcast offers access to high quality professional discussions to support relief teachers whatever stage of their career they are at. Looking for casual, long or short term teaching 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.

  1. 1d ago

    What happens if…Part Three

    In the third episode of our practical Q&A series for CRTs, we answer more real-life questions sent in by teachers. Schools are dynamic, fast-moving and often unpredictable environments, and CRTs are regularly required to make immediate decisions with little context and no time to prepare. In this episode, we explore some of the everyday challenges relief teachers face and offer practical, experience-based responses drawn from years in classrooms.  What do you do if: The class keeps comparing you to their regular teacher? A student refuses to come into a classroom?You are teaching out of your area – can you be credible?A student keeps needing your attention? This series is designed to support CRTs with realistic advice, reassurance and strategies that can be applied immediately in real classrooms. Professional Development Opportunity Professional 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 1.1 Physical, social and intellectual development and characteristics of students 1.2 Understand how students learn 2.1 Content and teaching strategies of the teaching area 2.5 Literacy and numeracy strategies 2.6 Information and Communication Technology (ICT) 3.4 Select and use resources 3.5 Use effective classroom communication 4.1 Support student participation          4.2 Manage classroom activities 4.3 Manage challenging behaviour 4.4 Maintain student safety 4.5 Use ICT safely, responsibly and ethically 7.1 Meet professional ethics and responsibilities 7.2 Comply with legislative, administrative and organisational requirements 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.

  2. Aug 11

    Working in high performing schools - Vermont Secondary College Interview with Cara Macfarlane

    Join in as we chat with Cara Macfarlane, Assistant Principal from Vermont Secondary College to explore her journey from graduate teacher to school leader and gain an insider's perspective on what helps schools thrive. We gain insight into the school culture, student success, leadership and the qualities that make relief teachers the first choice for future bookings. This episode is packed with practical insights and thoughtful reflections from someone who has successfully navigated every stage of the profession. Professional Development Opportunity Professional 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 1.1 Physical, social and intellectual development and characteristics of students 1.2 Understand how students learn 2.1 Content and teaching strategies of the teaching area 3.5 Use effective classroom communication 4.1 Support student participation 4.2 Manage classroom activities 4.3 Manage challenging behaviour 4.4 Maintain student safety 7.1 Meet professional ethics and responsibilities 7.2 Comply with legislative, administrative and organisational requirements 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.

  3. Aug 4

    What happens if... Part Two

    No two days of relief teaching are ever the same, and sometimes the most challenging situations arise when CRTs least expect them. From difficult parent interactions and last-minute timetable changes to student incidents and unexpected school procedures, adaptability is an essential skill for relief teachers. In this episode, we continue exploring common “What happens if…” scenarios that CRTs may encounter in schools and provide practical strategies for responding professionally, confidently and calmly under pressure. We also discuss the importance of communication, problem-solving and understanding school expectations when navigating unfamiliar situations, helping relief teachers feel more prepared for the realities of day-to-day CRT work. Professional Development Opportunity Professional 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 This episode focuses on: Australian Professional Standards for Teachers 1.2 Understand how students learn 3.3 Use teaching strategies 3.5 Use effective classroom communication 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 7.2 Comply with legislative, administrative and organisational requirements 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.

  4. Jul 28

    Why is this job so hard?

    Relief teaching can be incredibly rewarding — but it can also be one of the most challenging roles in education. From constantly adapting to new environments to managing behaviour, building relationships quickly and handling uncertainty, CRTs are often expected to perform under pressure with very little preparation time. In this episode, we explore why relief teaching can feel so difficult, the hidden pressures many CRTs experience and the realities of working across different schools, classrooms and student cohorts. We also discuss strategies for building confidence, developing resilience and recognising the value CRTs bring to schools every day. This episode aims to reassure relief teachers that many of the challenges they face are shared experiences across the profession. Professional Development Opportunity Professional 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 This episode focuses on: Australian Professional Standards for Teachers 1.1 Physical, social and intellectual development and characteristics of students 1.2 Understand how students learn 3.5 Use effective classroom communication 4.1 Support student participation 4.2 Manage classroom activities 4.3 Manage challenging behaviour 6.2 Engage in professional learning and improve practice 6.3 Engage with colleagues and improve practice 7.1 Meet professional ethics and responsibilities 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.

  5. Jul 21

    What happens if... Part One

    Every CRT eventually faces unexpected situations in the classroom — from student behaviour incidents and missing lesson plans to technology issues, emergencies and difficult conversations with staff or students. In this episode, we explore a range of common “What happens if…” scenarios that relief teachers may encounter during a school day and discuss practical ways to respond calmly, professionally and confidently. We also look at the importance of adaptability, communication and problem-solving when navigating unfamiliar environments, while offering strategies to help CRTs feel more prepared for the unpredictable nature of relief teaching. Professional Development Opportunity Professional 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 This episode focuses on: Australian Professional Standards for Teachers 1.2 Understand how students learn 3.3 Use teaching strategies 3.5 Use effective classroom communication 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 7.2 Comply with legislative, administrative and organisational requirements 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.

  6. Jul 14

    Avoiding Burnout

    Burnout is one of the biggest challenges facing educators and CRTs alike — especially when balancing unpredictable workloads, difficult classroom environments and the pressure to constantly perform at a high level. In this episode, we explore the warning signs of burnout, why it is so common in education, and the impact it can have on both professional performance and personal wellbeing. We also discuss practical strategies for protecting your energy, maintaining healthy boundaries, managing stress and creating sustainable habits that support long-term success in the classroom. Whether you are new to CRT work or an experienced educator, this episode provides valuable insights into maintaining balance while continuing to support students effectively. Professional Development Opportunity Professional 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 1.1 Physical, social and intellectual development and characteristics of students 1.2 Understand how students learn 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 7.1 Meet professional ethics and responsibilities 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.

  7. Jun 23

    Self-Care – How are you travelling?

    As the term winds down, many CRTs find themselves running on empty - physically, mentally, and emotionally. In this episode, we turn the focus inward, exploring how relief teachers can take stock of their own wellbeing after a demanding stretch in the classroom. We reflect on what’s been working, what’s taken its toll, and how to properly reset during the break. With Term 3 looming as the busiest and often most challenging part of the year, we also look at practical ways to prepare - rebuilding energy, sharpening routines, and setting boundaries that will actually hold. Honest, reflective, and grounded in real experience, this conversation is about finishing the term well and starting the next one ready.   Professional Development Opportunity Professional 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 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 7.4 Engage with professional teaching networks and broader communities 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.

  8. Jun 16

    Welfare Scenarios

    Student wellbeing situations can arise unexpectedly, and CRTs are often required to respond quickly, professionally and appropriately in challenging circumstances. In this episode, we explore common welfare scenarios relief teachers may encounter in schools — including student disclosures, wellbeing concerns, conflict situations, emotional distress and mandatory reporting responsibilities. We also discuss the importance of professional boundaries, following school procedures, maintaining student safety and understanding when and how to escalate concerns to leadership or wellbeing teams. This episode provides practical guidance to help CRTs feel more confident navigating sensitive situations while supporting positive outcomes for students. Professional Development Opportunity Professional 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 This episode focuses on: Australian Professional Standards for Teachers 1.1 Physical, social and intellectual development and characteristics of students 1.3 Students with diverse linguistic, cultural, religious and socioeconomic backgrounds 4.1 Support student participation 4.4 Maintain student safety 5.1 Assess student learning 6.2 Engage in professional learning and improve practice 7.1 Meet professional ethics and responsibilities 7.2 Comply with legislative, administrative and organisational requirements 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.

About

This is Australia's leading podcast dedicated to Casual Relief Teachers. Relief teachers are tasked with providing a seamless transition for students when their usual teacher is away. However, they face many challenges each day and often find it difficult to access high quality professional development. This podcast offers access to high quality professional discussions to support relief teachers whatever stage of their career they are at. Looking for casual, long or short term teaching 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.

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