DRTs and LRTs
Queensland Teachers' Journal, Vol 129 No 2, 28 March 2024, page 14.
District and local relief teachers serve a vital role in our school system, and are especially good for schools who struggle to secure sufficient TRS/supply teachers. There are a number of benefits, whether for the teachers themselves, the schools they work in or the system as a whole.
Local relief teachers work in one school to replace both short and long staff absences. District relief teachers work across a number of schools; they have a base school and a list of host schools. They can work to cover daily absences or longer contracts. Bookings are processed locally or through TRACER.
Because many members are new to DRT and LRT roles this year, it is timely to ensure that the teachers themselves, and their colleagues in base and host schools, are clear on their working conditions.
DRT and LRTs have the same industrial entitlements as all other classroom teachers. This includes access to meal breaks and non-contact time.
Depending on how far away host schools are, DRTs may be eligible for a kilometric allowance and time off in lieu of travel outside of school hours. In remote areas, they may also have access to a departmental vehicle.
Typically, the DoE only appoints teachers to a DRT or LRT role for a year or two. It can be a great way to get to know how other schools operate, particularly for teachers considering a requested transfer.
QTU Executive member Natalie Montague-Clarke worked as a DRT last year. She commented: “Working as a DRT gave me the opportunity to work in a number of schools in my area. I was able to make connections at my host school and see how things are done in different schools.”
DRT/LRT roles enable classroom teachers to access leave and professional development or have additional release time to work on curriculum development and new programs. We know this is an additional challenge, given the teacher shortage.
Because DRTs and LRTs work in a limited number of schools, they provide some consistency to students.
They also give the department the flexibility it needs to fill short and longer-term vacancies while fulfilling its obligations to maximise permanency under the Public Sector Act.
DRT and LRTs can’t replace casual and supply teachers, but they are a useful addition to the staffing mix, and the QTU supports their expanded use.
The DoE is working to support its DRTs and LRTs better. In January, an online workshop was co-delivered by Metro North and South HR and QTU officers. Other regions are looking at doing something similar.