Our guide for first-time supply teachers

Supply teachers are a crucial cog in the UK’s education system, responsible for ensuring that there is no disruption to students’ education in the absence of their teacher. Since the pandemic, supply work has become more important than ever. That’s why the government are now looking to recruit supply teachers en masse.

If you’re one of those new teachers, be assured that supply teaching is a genuinely rewarding way to work. However, the first day on the job can be challenging. Regardless of whether you’re providing short-term supply for a day or two, or will be teaching for an entire term, you need to be prepared if you want to be a success.

That’s why we’ve provided these top tips that supply teachers can take into their first day on the job and hit the ground running.

Arrive early and prepared

It may sound simple but ensuring you are early to your first day of supply teaching can make a world of difference. Arriving early will allow you to feel ready and you can focus on the day ahead. All this takes is some simple pre-planning. The night before your start at your new school is a great opportunity for you to plan out some important aspects of your day such as:

· The route to your new school and how long it will take you to get there

· Preparing your lunch in case there are no cafes or shops nearby

· Packing your own stationery just in case there is none available to you

Prepare your own lesson plans

It is common practice for a permanent teacher to prepare lesson plans for a supply teacher, however, there will be occasions when this isn’t the case. When no planning or preparation has been left behind, it makes sense to have some of your own lesson plans to hand. Come equipped with a few suitable plans that you can teach across varying year levels and abilities. It would be beneficial to prepare a literacy lesson, one numeracy lesson, and plans covering history, geography and art.

Additionally, there are always times of the day when you will need to fill short gaps, such as when your students finish their work early. It’s worth having a few entertaining time fillers within your lesson plans to ensure your pupils are occupied throughout their lesson.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions

Every school has their own daily processes and methods, especially when it comes to classroom management and lesson schedules. When you arrive at your school, ask the headteacher or your contact what their procedures are and if there is anything important that you should know. It’s also always a good idea to ask your new colleagues for any advice and tips about the school. They will be able to share a wealth of practical information with you. It’s also the perfect opportunity for a conversational ice breaker!

Maintain routines

Routines are essential for ensuring the smooth running of your pupils’ day, so it’s important to know a school’s daily system and ensure that you maintain it to the best of your ability. If a pupil feels that their routine is being sustained, they will understand that you are in control, even if they are unfamiliar with you. This can help with their productivity throughout the day and contribute to positive behaviour .

If you’re unsure about daily routines, try to make the effort to seek out another teacher and they’ll be able to explain what happens throughout the day, along with giving advice on maintaining structure.

Take on a supply teaching job with Teaching Personnel

If you’re ready to find a supply teaching role and tackle your first day, Teaching Personnel is here to help. We place NQTs, fully qualified teachers and learning support staff in temporary jobs at thousands of schools every year, taking the time to understand what each person is looking for in their next job. Browse our supply teaching jobs and embark on a brand-new, rewarding journey.