My understanding is that when the training rosters system migrates fully into the new CRS around the beginning of next year, all trainers will bid for their duties in the same way that line pilots do. The major difference of course is that they will also have training duties to cover. There will be flights allocated for training, of which trainers only can bid. How these duties along with simulators and classroom days are displayed on the system, I've no idea, neither probably do some of the managers at this stage.
I was also told that you could bid for 5 days off in your request month then back that up with another 5 days off in preference to continue the string up to ten consecutive days. This option would be open to all pilots, both training and line and would be in the two request months only and of course dependent on any pre assignment not blocking it such as manual handling, SEP, CRM etc. Whilst that may work in principle, the reality would be impossible. I'm led to believe that B777 rosters will be really, really tight for Jan through to March, possibly April so even 5 consecutive days may be pushing it! A380 might be achievable but don't hold your breath on that either.
Historical evidence predicts plenty of FCI's, letters, emails, changes and explanations over the next few months. Oh, and probably a few tears too!
Harry