invalleraar

Invalleraar is a term used in Dutch-speaking education to describe a teacher who temporarily takes over classroom duties when the regular teacher is absent or when a class needs instruction outside its usual schedule. The role is common in both primary and secondary education, and invallers may be employed directly by schools or supplied through temporary staffing agencies.

The core responsibilities of an invalleraar are to deliver lessons, supervise students, and maintain classroom order in accordance with the school’s curriculum and behavior policies. They typically follow the lesson plans left by the regular teacher, adapt as needed to the students’ level, take attendance, monitor safety, and communicate any notable student progress or concerns to the regular teacher after the substitution ends. In some cases, they may administer or score simple assessments, but they generally do not undertake long-term curriculum development.

Qualifications and arrangements for invallers vary by country and school. In many systems, substitutes are licensed teachers, student teachers, or graduates who have training in education and are authorized to teach. Some contexts also allow non-certified staff to cover short-term duties under supervision. The specific requirements, including background checks and safeguarding procedures, are determined by local regulations and school policies.

Overall, invallers help maintain continuity of instruction during teacher absences and contribute to the flexibility and resilience of schools, while posing challenges related to unfamiliarity with the class, curriculum, or ongoing projects.