Schools Ensuring ES entitlements
Over the past two terms we have been running free ES entitlements webinars to make sure all education support members are fully across the many clauses in the VGSA that support their work.
In Term 2, they were run for education support staff only. In Term 3 we opened them up to teacher reps and principal class members as well. More than 2000 members have now attended these sessions to build their understanding of ES entitlements, and work with their ES colleagues to strengthen their voice and their power within sub-branches.
Understanding your entitlements is key to ensuring that ES rights are being implemented properly in your school; that the voice of ES is being heard; that real consultation with ES is occurring; and that you are properly included in the schools long-term planning. Keep an eye on our website for the details of Term 4 webinars – and if there is a topic that hasn’t yet been covered, reach out and let me know: [email protected].
These sessions have not only seen new ES members joining the AEU, but also more ES stepping up and taking on the role of ES rep in sub-branches. Having an ES rep on your sub-branch and consultative committee is integral to ensuring that your voice is heard loud and clear.
During Term 3, we started an Allied Health Network. This network is open to all AEU ES members who undertake an allied health role within the school. The aim of the network is to build better understanding and recognition of the duties of allied health staff leading into the next log of claims.
If you are an allied health staff member and not yet part of the network, send me an email and get involved. Other established ES networks continue to meet regularly.
During Term 4, I will be visiting more schools in regional areas, having been to Shepparton, Wangaratta, Ballarat, Bendigo, Bairnsdale, Traralgon, and Geelong so far this year. I will be heading to Mildura, Horsham, Portland, Warrnambool and Wodonga, so if you would like a visit from an AEU organiser, make sure to contact me or your usual union organiser to arrange this.
Job descriptions
The Dimensions of Work (DoW) in VGSA 2022 were redefined as a result of member reference groups. This means that if you started work at your school prior to July 2022, your job description was written in line with the DoW in VGSA 2017 and is now outdated. So, now is the time for you to seek updated job descriptions for all education support staff in your school. Ask your colleagues to join the union and stand with you to get this done.
ES PD opportunity
All AEU ES now have access to the Teacher Learning Network. In Term 4, two new courses have been added: Support students with complex needs through transitions and Connecting with disengaged students. Both of these will be held on 1 November. Head to the TLN website to register: www.tln.org.au.
