A Survival Guide for Daily Secondary Supply Teachers
Supply teaching can be intimidating when you are just starting out. Walking into a new school where you're unfamiliar with the staff, children and systems can feel overwhelming.
The good news? This is completely normal. As a full-time class teacher who transitioned into supply teaching, the night before the first day of my new role was rarely restful.
But, due to thorough preparation and research, I looked back at the end of my first day with a sense of achievement. In fact, despite the nerves, it was an extremely enjoyable experience.
From day one, things will only get easier. You will pick up tips and tricks as you go. Different schools will provide insight on various techniques. The process will simply become more instinctive.
In teaching, the most valuable lessons you learn will come with practical experience. Supply teaching jobs are perhaps the most effective for honing this experience.
Here are some top tips for delivering your best as a secondary supply teacher.
Arrive early and prepared
This is a simple one, but the simplest steps carry the most weight. If possible, prepare as much as you can the day before, get an early night’s rest, then be up and ready to arrive early.
If you turn up five minutes before the students arrive, it only takes one unexpected interruption to set you behind for the rest of the day. As a new supply teacher, avoid any unnecessary stressors.
Some class teachers may not leave adequate notes or resources for the upcoming day. If you arrive early, you’ll have the chance to ask other teachers for advice or devise your own plan.
Double-check your travel route the night before and make sure you've packed all your necessities. Before the students arrive, your mind will be calm, prepared, and focused on the learning content.
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.
Looking for a supply teaching role? Join Teaching Personnel
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For all the work you could need, register with us for free or browse our current supply teaching jobs.
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