The Benefits of Casual Relief Teachers Doing OSHC Work During the Holidays

For casual relief teachers looking to make the most of their time during school holidays, working in Outside School Hours Care (OSHC) can be a rewarding and flexible option. Whether you’re seeking additional income, wanting to develop your skills, or simply looking for a change of pace, OSHC work offers a variety of benefits that complement your teaching career. Here’s why it’s worth considering during the holiday break.

1. Flexible Hours and Work-Life Balance
One of the biggest advantages of OSHC work during the school holidays is the flexibility it offers. As a casual relief teacher, you already have a certain level of flexibility in your work schedule, but OSHC shifts tend to be outside of regular school hours—before school, after school, and during the school holidays. This allows you to maintain a balance between work and your personal life while earning extra income. You can choose the hours that suit you best, making it an ideal option if you’re looking for something that doesn’t interfere with your family commitments or other personal activities.

2. A Break from Traditional Classroom Teaching
If you love working with children but need a change from the classroom environment, OSHC provides a refreshing alternative. The atmosphere is generally more relaxed than in a classroom, and the focus is often on play, socialising, and extracurricular activities. This change of pace can be both fun and fulfilling, giving you a new perspective on child development and care. You can also experience a different side of education, engaging with students in a non-academic, more informal setting.

3. Develop New Skills
OSHC roles offer casual relief teachers the opportunity to build on their existing skill set. Working in an OSHC setting allows you to develop your communication, behaviour management, and activity planning skills in a new context. You’ll also have the chance to work with different age groups and gain experience in a variety of settings, which can be beneficial for your professional development. These new skills will not only enhance your teaching capabilities but could also make you more competitive in future job opportunities, both within and outside of the education sector.

4. Opportunity for Networking
While working in OSHC, you have the opportunity to meet and build relationships with other educators, caregivers, and school staff. This networking can open doors to other teaching opportunities or collaborations. It’s a great way to expand your professional connections within the education sector, and you may find that your OSHC work leads to more consistent relief teaching roles or even permanent positions in the future.

5. Extra Income
During school holidays, many teachers are looking for ways to supplement their income, and OSHC work offers a straightforward solution. Depending on the number of shifts you take on, you can earn a substantial amount over the holidays. With OSHC centres typically offering before and after-school care as well as full-day holiday programs, there’s a wide variety of shifts available, meaning you can work as much or as little as you prefer. This additional income can be especially helpful for teachers who want to save for future expenses or simply make the most of their time off.

6. Contribute to Children’s Development in a Different Way
OSHC work allows casual relief teachers to continue contributing to children’s growth, but in a different capacity than in a regular classroom. As an OSHC educator, you’ll engage in activities like arts and crafts, sports, games, and other fun programs that help children develop social and emotional skills outside of a traditional learning environment. It’s a chance to make a positive impact on students’ lives in a more relaxed and creative setting, all while fostering positive relationships with children and their families.

7. Enjoy a Change of Environment
For casual relief teachers, variety is often one of the most appealing aspects of the job. Working in OSHC gives you a break from the routine of classroom teaching and allows you to enjoy a change of environment. It’s a great opportunity to step into a new role and experience a different side of the education system while still engaging with children and supporting their development.

For casual relief teachers, doing OSHC work during the holidays offers a wealth of benefits, including flexibility, the chance to develop new skills, networking opportunities, and extra income. Whether you’re looking for a break from the classroom, want to work with children in a more relaxed setting, or simply need extra cash over the holidays, OSHC can provide a fulfilling and rewarding way to spend your time off. If you’re ready to explore this opportunity, now is the perfect time to get started and make the most of your school holidays.

Ash Griffiths – Brand Manager