AEU requests withdrawal of Step 9 document
The AEU has received many calls from Step 9 teachers and leaders about the DECS document titled ‘Step 9 Teacher Leader Update’ which has been distributed by the Teacher Quality Unit.
Key Issues
The Step 9 process is an agreed process between the AEU and DECS and is clearly outlined in the South Australian Education Staff (Government Preschools and Schools) Arbitrated Enterprise Bargaining Award 2010.
The AEU advises members that we were not consulted by DECS about this document, nor have we agreed to the new and additional requirements that are outlined.
This matter was raised by AEU Officers with DECS on 17 May 2011, however, DECS has not provided a satisfactory response.
The AEU has now formally requested that the document be withdrawn by DECS as it is fast becoming a contentious issue in sites and as such is causing unnecessary pressure/conflict for teachers and leaders.
AEU members are advised to follow the process which is outlined in Schedule 3, Attachment 1 of the Award (available on the AEU website, refer to page 5, Schedule 3).
Frequently asked questions:
Q: I am an AST1 who translated to Step 9. Do I have to complete a PDP?
A: No, once the translation has occurred, you are required to participate in the annual review process as part of the normal performance management process which occurs in preschools and schools.
Q: If I move to a new site, do I need to submit a new PDP?
A: No, you will need to have an annual review discussion with your site leader/line manager and this would be the appropriate forum to discuss your PDP, however, there is no requirement to submit a new document.
Q: I have been told that Step 9 can be taken away from me, is this correct?
A: No, once you have been successful in gaining Step 9, you maintain continuity of appointment to Step 9, in the same way as is currently for teachers on Step 8 of the salary scale.
Q: In the DECS document, teachers are referred to as “teacher leaders”. Is this the same as a Lead Teacher as defined in the new National Professional Standards for Teachers?
A: No, there is no relationship between the incremental steps in our salary scale and the four levels in the Standards. The term “teacher leaders” has no status or meaning in relation to a Step 9 teacher, nor has the AEU agreed to its use in relation to Step 9.
If you have any queries about Step 9 please contact the AEU Information Unit on 8272 1399.