How to become a successful supply teacher

Working in education is one of the most rewarding careers as you shape the next generation of learners. Whether you’re researching the career path, you are becoming an Early Career or Newly Qualified Teacher (ECT/NQT) or are an experienced teacher seeking variety, supply teaching allows you to gain experience across different schools and educational settings. In this guide, we’ll explore the steps to becoming a successful supply teacher through preparation, adaptability and the support of a reliable recruitment agency.

A supply teacher is an educator who fills in for permanent teachers on a short-term or long-term basis. Schools across England and Wales will book supply teachers to maintain continuity in education during absences, whether due to illness, maternity leave, or other circumstances.

Supply teaching offers unique opportunities including the ability to work in a variety of schools, choose your schedule, and experience different teaching environments. But how do you become a successful supply teacher, and what role does the right agency play in your journey?

Steps to becoming a successful supply teacher

1. Obtain the right qualifications and training

To work as a supply teacher in England and Wales, you’ll need:

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS): This is essential for teaching in most schools and is typically obtained after completing an Initial Teacher Training (ITT) programme.

• Enhanced DBS Check: An up-to-date Disclosure and Barring Service check is a legal requirement for working with children.

• Specialised skills and training: An additional certification in safeguarding training is mandatory for teachers in the United Kingdom. Skills in SEN (Special Educational Needs) expertise or residential care such as crisis management, moving and handling and food hygiene can enhance your employability.

2. Be adaptable and resilient

From navigating new school policies to managing unfamiliar classrooms, flexibility is key. Some tips include:

• Stay organised: Always have a bag packed with essential teaching supplies, such as stationery, lesson plans, and rewards for students. Have a digital or physical folder of lesson plans and activities to hand, so you’re never stuck with how to teach the next topic.

• Adapt quickly: Every school has its own culture and expectations. Being open-minded and observant will help you integrate seamlessly. Read the school’s policies such as safeguarding, dress code and behaviour policy to gain a deeper understanding.

• Build Rapport: Engaging with students and colleagues quickly is crucial. A friendly and professional attitude goes a long way.

3. Focus on Continuous Professional Development (CPD)

Staying up to date with the latest teaching strategies and policies can set you apart as a supply teacher. Seek opportunities for CPD, such as:

• Attending workshops or online training

• Gaining additional qualifications, like SEN training or subject-specific certifications

• Keeping abreast of changes in the national curriculum

• Topping up knowledge with videos and quizzes

Watching bite-sized videos from My-Progression is a quick and easy way to gain CPD and can be evidenced with free CPD certificates.

4. Communicate effectively

Strong communication skills are essential for successful supply teaching. These include:

• Clear instructions: Ensure your lesson objectives are easily understood by students, written down on the whiteboard and revisited at the end of the lesson.

• Feedback to schools: Leave detailed notes about the progress of the lessons and any issues that arise. Don’t be afraid to seek out feedback from mentors or senior staff which can help you to improve.

• Building relationships: Maintain positive connections with schools to increase the likelihood of being called back.

5. Manage classroom behaviour

Effective behaviour management is a cornerstone of successful supply teaching. Although you may not have the same rapport with students as a permanent teacher that they’ve seen often, strategies such as setting clear expectations and rewarding positive behaviour can help maintain order and build relationships.

6. Register with a trusted recruitment agency

Finding the right supply teaching agency is crucial. A reputable agency will:

• Match your skills and preferences with the right schools.

• Provide consistent work opportunities.

• Offer guidance, training, and resources to help you succeed.

TeacherActive is one of the largest education recruitment agencies trusted by thousands of educators. With over 20 years of experience, we’re experts in connecting supply teachers with schools across England and Wales and pride ourselves on providing a personalised, professional service from a dedicated consultant to help you thrive.

Why choose TeacherActive for your supply teaching career?

Partnering with the right agency can transform your supply teaching experience. Here’s how we support supply teachers:

Expert matching process

We take the time to understand your strengths, preferences, and goals. By matching you with schools that align with your skills, personal qualities, and career aspirations, we ensure you’re placed in environments where you can succeed.

Extensive school network

With an extensive network of over 3,000 education settings across England and Wales, we offer a wide variety of opportunities. Whether you prefer working in primary or secondary schools, cities or rural areas, we’ve got you covered.

Dedicated support

Our team provides ongoing support to ensure your success. From your first phone call to registration, heading to your first placement and providing feedback on your experience, our dedicated consultants are here to listen and support you every step of the way.

CPD opportunities

We believe in investing in our supply teachers. That’s why we built My-Progression, our CPD platform that gives you advice, support and knowledge every week, keeping you at the forefront of educational best practices.

Flexibility and Work-Life Balance

As a supply teacher with TeacherActive, you have the power to choose when and where you work. Our agency works closely with you to tailor opportunities that fit your lifestyle and commitments.

Top tips for success as a supply teacher

1. Arrive early

Arriving early, at least 30 minutes before lessons begin, gives you time to familiarise yourself with the school layout, review the lesson plans, and meet key staff members. First impressions matter, and punctuality shows professionalism. As a supply teacher your role is crucial in supporting last-minute absences, so it’s best to be ready early, standing by for the call that you need to come in.

2. Be prepared

Always have a toolkit of generic lesson plans and activities, especially for situations where no plans are provided. This ensures you’re ready to deliver engaging lessons at short notice.

3. Network with staff

Building relationships with other teachers and school staff can lead to repeat bookings and valuable advice. Be approachable and willing to collaborate.

4. Reflect and learn

After each day, reflect on what went well and what could be improved. This self-assessment will help you grow and adapt to different teaching environments.

5. Maintain professionalism

Always present yourself professionally, from your attire to your interactions. Schools appreciate reliable, respectful, and capable supply teachers who set an example for the students.

Start your journey as a supply teacher today

Supply teaching is a fulfilling and dynamic career path that offers the chance to make a meaningful impact on pupils’ lives. With the right approach and the support of an expert agency like TeacherActive, you can excel in this role while enjoying its flexibility and variety.

Becoming a successful supply teacher requires dedication, preparation, and the right support. By registering with TeacherActive, you’ll gain access to a wealth of opportunities in your area, expert guidance, and resources designed to help you thrive. Contact us today to take the first step towards a rewarding career as a supply teacher.