Working as a casual educator offers flexibility, and the opportunity to gain experience across different early learning environments. However, managing shifts efficiently can sometimes be challenging, especially when balancing availability, maintaining relationships with centres, and ensuring you’re always prepared.
At Save Our Service, we ensure that all our educators are equipped with the skills to manage their shifts. So, without further ado, here’s a quick guide to help you navigate the casual educator life with ease:
1. Stay Organised with a Calendar
A well-maintained calendar is essential to keep track of your shifts. Use a digital tool like Google Calendar or a scheduling app to mark your availability, shift details, and important reminders. This will not only help you avoid double-booking but also make it easier to update your availability quickly when you’re contacted for new shifts.
2. Communicate Your Availability Clearly
Being upfront and clear about your availability is key. Many centres appreciate proactive communication, so regularly updating your availability with the agencies or centres you work with can increase your chances of getting shifts. It’s helpful to provide a week or two of availability in advance to help centres with their planning.
3. Be Flexible
While flexibility is a key perk of casual work, it’s also a key trait that centres value. The more adaptable you are, the more likely you’ll be called in for shifts. Be open to working in different rooms, age groups, and locations. Being a ‘go-to’ educator in times of need will make you a valuable resource to centres.
4. Be Prepared for Each Shift
No two shifts are alike, especially when you’re a casual educator working across different centres. Ensure your bag is always packed with essentials like a notebook, pens, sunscreen, a hat, and snacks. Make a habit of arriving early to familiarise yourself with the centre’s layout, policies, and the children in your care.
5. Build Relationships with Centres
Establishing good relationships with the centres you work for will make a significant difference. When a centre feels confident in your abilities and professionalism, you’re more likely to be called back for future shifts. Be sure to introduce yourself to the staff, communicate effectively, and offer assistance wherever you can.
6. Maintain Professionalism
As a casual educator, you represent not only yourself but also the agency or service that places you. Always arrive on time, dress appropriately, and approach each shift with a positive attitude. Even though you might only be at a centre for one day, leaving a lasting positive impression will ensure you’re top of mind for future shifts.
7. Keep Developing Your Skills
One way to stay ahead as a casual educator is by continuing to develop your skills. Take advantage of professional development opportunities that may come your way. Whether it’s attending workshops or completing online courses, staying up to date with the latest early childhood education practices will make you a more valuable educator.
8. Know Your Rights
As a casual worker, it’s important to be aware of your rights, including minimum shift lengths, overtime rates, and the entitlements set out in your award or enterprise agreement. Understanding the terms of your casual employment ensures you’re treated fairly and compensated appropriately for your work.
9. Look After Yourself
Working as a casual educator can sometimes lead to irregular hours, so it’s important to prioritise self-care. Make sure to get enough rest, eat well, and take time to recharge between shifts. Remember, you can’t give your best if you’re not feeling your best.
By following these tips, you’ll not only manage your shifts more efficiently but also enhance your professional reputation as a casual educator. Looking for casual childcare jobs? Apply online now with Save Our Service!