Supply teaching and support work can be incredibly rewarding but only if you know how to make it work for you. With the right approach, you can enjoy flexibility, build experience, and even earn pay that reflects your skills. Here’s how.
Share Your Idea of a Good School
If you tell your consultant what your ideal school or role looks like, we can help you find it. Whether it’s a specific culture, supportive environment, or a certain location, being clear about what works for you means we can match you with placements that fit your preferences, making supply work feel more like a choice and less like a compromise.
Try Different Roles Before Committing
Supply work is also a great way to explore different roles and settings before committing to a long-term placement. You might try teaching a different age group, covering a subject you haven’t taught before, or supporting in a classroom with a different approach. This flexibility lets you discover what works best for you before settling into a more permanent arrangement.
How to Start Off Well in Any School
A strong start can make your day easier, help you build positive relationships, and leave a great impression. Here’s what works:
- Arrive early: Give yourself time to settle in and get organised.
- Bring your DBS and photo ID: Schools may ask for it, so it’s good to be prepared.
- Ask about policies: Check in on the school’s behaviour, safeguarding, and marking policies.
- Show an interest in the class: Engaging with students and staff sets a positive tone.
- Mark work to a professional standard: Leaving completed work in good shape helps both staff and students.
- Communicate before you leave: Let staff know when you are leaving and share any key updates or points for follow-up.
Following these steps helps you feel confident, supported, and ready to make the most of each placement.
Set Your Travel Limits
One of the biggest perks of supply work is flexibility but it’s important to be clear about your limits.
Some teachers are happy to travel further for a school that’s a particularly good fit. Others prefer to stick very close to home. Both approaches work perfectly well, as long as you communicate your preferences to your consultant. It’s also worth checking the location before deciding, what might seem far on paper could be closer than you think if there are good transport links. Being upfront saves frustration and ensures you get placements that suit your lifestyle
Know the 12-Week AWR Rule
If you’ve been in the same school for 12 continuous weeks, the Agency Worker Regulations (AWR) mean you should be paid the same as a permanent member of staff doing that job.
This is often the point where long-term supply becomes noticeably more rewarding. So, if you’re consistently in a placement you enjoy, this rule ensures your time and expertise are properly recognised.
Make Supply Work for You
Supply work isn’t just a stopgap, it can be a sustainable, fulfilling way to work in education. By understanding your rights, setting boundaries, and spotting the schools that support you, you can make sure supply work works for you, not the other way around.
Ready to find a supply or long-term role that works for you?
Explore our latest opportunities or speak with your local consultant for more information.
