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Celebrating a Decade of Impact: The Free Agency Story and Its Vision for the Future
In the very first episode of the Free Agency Podcast, host Ash and guests Tim, Robyn, and Mel reflect on the first ten years of Free Agency, sharing insights on community building, the journey so far, and where the company is headed next.
Free Agency: Where It All Began
Launching the inaugural episode of the Free Agency Podcast was a milestone in itself, but the deeper celebration is for Free Agency’s ten-year journey. Founded by Tim and James Dickinson, Free Agency wasn’t born from a grand, formal plan, but from simple beginnings and a shared vision. As Tim recounts, it all started during their time working together at Mentone Girls Grammar School. After recognizing gaps in the market for education staffing—and armed with little more than a couple of beers and a desire to do things better—they launched Free Agency.
The name itself carries meaning: “Free” implies the freedom for both educators and schools to make choices, while “agency” speaks to being proactive and empowered. The company’s roots are in democratizing education staffing and creating space for passion and excellence to thrive.
The “Aha” Moment and Building Real Relationships
One of the early breakthrough realizations for Free Agency was that relationships are at the heart of what they do. As Tim shares, it wasn’t just about connecting teachers with schools on a transactional level. It was about knowing people: their preferences, their passions, and matching them thoughtfully with environments where they could flourish.
Robyn adds a valuable perspective, emphasizing that their team knows both sides of the education equation. They understand what teachers bring and what schools need—not only at administrative levels, but through understanding the culture and pedagogy unique to each community. This dual focus is central to their success, allowing for integrity and care in their placements.
Milestones and The Value of “Trusting the Process”
For Tim, the biggest win of Free Agency’s first decade has been its lasting positive impact on people’s lives and the broader education ecosystem. The company has maintained a sterling reputation, not because every single step was perfect, but because of a commitment to improvement and the company mantra: TTP, or “Trust the Process.”
This philosophy helps guide the team through inevitable challenges and ensures that actions always align with the company’s foundational values. Maintaining excellence in their education community—and being a true partner rather than simply an employer—remains the key differentiator for Free Agency.
Looking Forward: Ambitions for the Next Ten Years
With a decade under their belt, the Free Agency team is already setting sights on the future. As Tim reveals, the next phase will focus even more on staff input and leadership. They envision Free Agency not just as a local innovator but as a national, and potentially global, provider of education professionals. The goal isn’t about unchecked growth, but about impacting communities where and when they’re ready, always maintaining the high standards that have become their signature.
Expansion is on the horizon, but not at the cost of integrity. Free Agency wants to be remembered not as the biggest player, but as the best—the one that people recommend because of authentic care and demonstrated excellence.
Why Join Free Agency?
For educators tuning in—whether teachers, aides, or administrative professionals—the message is clear: Free Agency is a family. Tim expresses deep gratitude for the staff, emphasizing that everyone is known, valued, and respected. The company’s culture thrives on genuine connection, learning opportunities (like their unique PD events at local pubs), and a proactive approach to helping individuals in their career journey.
Mel highlights how this personal approach creates a sense of familiarity and belonging—teachers are matched to environments where they genuinely fit and where their preferences are respected.
Robyn offers a piece of advice for anyone curious about Free Agency: just reach out. The process is easy, welcoming, and led by people who truly care about elevating educators’ careers.
Growing Community, On and Offline
Free Agency isn’t just about staffing schools—it’s about building a broader community. The company partners with local sports and social clubs, connecting educators not only to professional opportunities but also to networks and friendships beyond school walls. For the latest updates and opportunities, Ash encourages everyone to follow their active social media channels.
The Free Agency Podcast’s first episode is both a celebration and an invitation. After a decade of impact, Free Agency is doubling down on what makes it special: genuine relationships, an unwavering commitment to quality, and the belief that when the timing is right, great people and opportunities find each other. Here’s to the next ten years of making a difference, one educator at a time.
