Substitute Teacher (Early Years & Elementary)

Substitute Teacher (Early Years & Elementary)

Position Title: Substitute Teacher

Department: Early Years & Elementary (Early Years – Grade 5)

Employment Type: Full-time

Reports To: Early Years & Elementary School Principal

Position Overview

The Substitute Teacher provides short-term instructional coverage and supervision for classes in the Early Years and Elementary sections during the absence of regular teachers or teacher assistants.

The successful candidate will execute lesson plans, maintain a safe and positive learning environment, and provide timely feedback to the primary teacher and school leadership. This role may also include leading After-School Activities (ASA) and performing duties according to the absent staff member’s schedule.

Key Responsibilities

1. Instruction & Classroom Management:

Deliver lessons and instructional activities prepared by the classroom teacher; adapt material to meet student needs while maintaining lesson objectives.

Maintain a safe, orderly, and inclusive learning environment adhering to school behavior standards.

Provide differentiated instruction and support for students with diverse learning needs, including English as an Additional Language (EAL) learners and students with special educational needs.

Implement positive behavior management strategies and de-escalation techniques.

Keep accurate attendance records and ensure smooth student transitions between classes, recess, lunch, and dismissal.

2. Student Wellbeing & Safeguarding:

Strictly adhere to Child Protection and Safeguarding policies; report any concerns or incidents immediately to leadership.

Supervise students during non-instructional times, including recess, lunch, and drop-off/pick-up duties.

3. Co-Curricular & Duty Coverage:

Lead assigned After-School Activities (ASA) in alignment with the absent teacher’s schedule to ensure continuity of the program.

4. Collaboration & Communication:

Communicate effectively with the main teacher and grade-level team regarding lesson progress and student participation.

Complete a brief daily hand-over report (topics covered, student engagement, incomplete work, behavioral notes, and resources used).

Coordinate effectively with Teaching Assistants (TAs), specialist teachers, and support staff.

5. Administration & Professional Conduct:

Follow school schedules, emergency procedures (fire drills, lockdowns, medical care), and school operational guidelines.

Maintain strict confidentiality regarding student records and personal information.

Ensure classroom materials, devices, and keys are properly gathered, maintained, and returned.

Utilize approved school technology platforms (e.g., Toddle, attendance logging, email).

Participate in mandatory training sessions (first aid, safeguarding, classroom management).

Demonstrate high standards of professionalism, punctuality, and reliability.

6. Flexibility:

Demonstrate adaptability to step into various grade levels (Early Years to Grade 5) and subject areas at short notice.

Perform other reasonable duties assigned by the Early Years / Elementary Principal.

Qualifications & Experience

Education: Bachelor’s degree (Education or a related field preferred); teaching certification or license is an advantage.

Experience: Prior experience working with young children in an educational, childcare, or tutoring environment.

Language Skills: Strong English language proficiency (both written and spoken). Knowledge of additional languages is a plus.

Pedagogical Knowledge: Familiarity with inquiry-based and play-based learning approaches (Early Years) as well as balanced literacy and numeracy approaches (Elementary).

Technical Skills: Proficiency with classroom technology (interactive whiteboards, projectors) and software tools (Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, Toddle).

Key Competencies

Effective classroom management and positive behavior support.

High adaptability, flexibility, and resilience.

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.