How to Onboard a Relief Teacher in 15 Minutes or Less

May 13, 2025Articles, Leadership

A well-prepared relief teacher ensures a smooth learning experience for children, even when regular staff are unavailable. Onboarding quickly can be a challenge, but with a structured approach, you can set up a kindergarten teacher or early childhood educator for success in just 15 minutes

Step 1: Quick Orientation (5 Minutes) 

Start with a brief introduction to the preschool and provide a Relief Teacher Guide covering: 

 ✔ The daily schedule and classroom routines 

 ✔ Emergency procedures and key safety rules 

 ✔ Who to approach for support 

Introducing them to a fellow preschool teacher or assistant ensures they know where to turn for help. 

Step 2: Classroom Overview (5 Minutes) 

Give a rundown of classroom expectations, including: 

 ✔ Student roster (noting any allergies or special needs) 

 ✔ Lesson plans or scheduled activities 

 ✔ Behavior management strategies that work best 

Maintaining consistency is key for both students and teachers. 

Step 3: Set Clear Expectations (3 Minutes) 

Communicate the most important aspects of the role: 

 ✔ Priority tasks (keeping children engaged, safety protocols) 

 ✔ Reporting expectations (incident reports, lesson notes) 

 ✔ Contact details for emergencies 

Step 4: Build Confidence (2 Minutes) 

Offer a few words of encouragement and let them know they have support. A preschool teacher assistant or another staff member can check in periodically to ensure things are running smoothly. 

By following this 15-minute onboarding process, you can ensure hiring preschool teachers and relief staff remains efficient while maintaining classroom quality. With a structured system, you make every transition smooth and stress-free for both students and teachers. 

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