A Survival Guide for Daily Secondary Supply Teachers

Bring some backup resources

Any supply teacher will tell you to come armed with backup resources. This might be in the form of extra activities to account for potential lulls in the day. You could even turn up with fully-fledged lesson plans.

Most of the time, class teachers will leave you an outline of the day, including plans and resources. However, it’s advisable to prepare for the event of this not happening. Arriving with appropriate plans for teaching a variety of ages and abilities always made me feel more confident. I knew a safety net would be there, regardless of the situation.

Touch base with the class teacher(s) before the day

If possible, touch base with the class teacher(s) before you arrive. This will quell a lot of anxieties about the unknown.

Some prior knowledge about normal routines will put you in a much better position when teaching children who don't know you. Children like consistency. If you roughly follow their typical day, you'll keep them engaged and on track.

Try to find about any potential behaviour issues, learning levels, and preferred learning styles for the class. All this information could prove invaluable. The faster you can build rapport with the children, the better.

Ask questions

When you are in school, don’t be afraid to ask questions. If you can, try and get a quick rundown of the fundamental procedures from the head or deputy. It's important to make sure you're armed with anything and everything you need to know.

Other teachers - as long as they're not rushing around with a stack of papers or glaring at a computer with a furrowed brow - will be happy to spare you some time.

Any educator knows that the office staff are fountains of knowledge - stop by and ask for advice if needed. This is also a great way to become familiar with the layout of the school and to break the ice with staff members. Remember, you may be called upon for future supply work teaching at the school, so try not to be too shy!

Build relationships

It may be tempting to walk into the classroom with a steely gaze and iron fist. Entering uncharted territory is intimidating. But remember, you're not entering a battlefield.

Pupils will respond well to friendly yet assertive teachers who quickly set expectations.

Building relationships in a short space of time is a big challenge for supply teachers. You don't have the same amount of time as a full-time class teacher to cultivate a meaningful rapport.

However, this does not mean that it’s impossible. Don’t be afraid to express your sense of humour. Be warm and friendly yet assertive when your expectations are challenged. Remain consistent, fair, and follow the school’s systems.

If the school asks you to return, students will be far more receptive if they have experienced symbiotic respect with you in the past.

You can brush up on some behaviour management tips for supply teachers in our recent article here.

Leave a detailed note for the teacher

Once the day is over, ensure you leave a detailed note or email for the class teacher. Outline the day's significant events, report on behaviour and outline any further steps that need to be taken with the work.

This conscientiousness establishes trust and demonstrates high standards. All these traits will help you find more supply teaching jobs. Remember, schools do speak to each other. If you leave a good impression, you may well find yourself with more supply work teaching going forward.

It’s okay to be anxious

Naturally, nerves will run high for any new supply teacher. Walking into an unfamiliar school, with unfamiliar staff, children, and systems is no easy task. However, if you seek out advice, ask questions, and prepare to the best of your ability, you’ll find the days will be easier and more enjoyable.

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