Jump to main content
Search
shortlist register contact us menu

Supply Teaching: The Ultimate Solution for Burnout this Teacher Resignation Day

Date posted : 18 October 2024

As 31st October approaches, it’s a significant date for many teachers in the UK who may be considering their professional future.  Teaching has always been one of the most rewarding professions. Yet, it’s also one of the toughest.  Almost half of teachers in England plan to quit by 2027.   

The latest workforce survey by the Department for Education (DfE) found that 40,000 teachers resigned from state schools in 2021/22, 9% of the teaching workforce. There are many reasons for resignations, with workload pressures and lack of flexibility as major factors.    

If you’re contemplating a change, alternatives within education offer greater balance and satisfaction. 

Continue teaching without the stress  

At Teaching Personnel, we understand educator challenges. Administrative tasks, never-ending marking, and a healthy work-life balance can become untenable. That’s why we offer a flexible solution that enables you to continue doing what you love—teaching—without the added stress

Benefits of supply teaching  

Educators have longer notice periods than professionals in most other jobs, so it pays to spend some time thinking about your next move. ​​Supply teaching can be a refreshing change. Supply teachers are the backbone of schools. Working as a supply teacher enables you to try new teaching methods, upskill, and gain more teaching experience. You can meet new colleagues, experience alternative classroom environments, and develop new skills. You’ll find that each day is unique, bringing new challenges and rewards.  

Beat workload pressures  

The NEU’s most recent survey found that in recent years, the single reason for moving into supply work among the current supply workforce was the workload in permanent posts. In July 2023, the government commissioned a report on workload reduction. It found that educators estimate they worked more than seven “unnecessary hours” a week on average. Educators often take on extra roles and feel like social workers, carers, and safeguarders.  

There is also ‘empty’ work, like producing data for things that seem pointless and extra admin. 

The World Health Organisation (WHO) states that working more than 55 hours a week damages health. But many educators are doing that. Some educators report working 60-hour weeks. A November 2023 study by the mental health charity Education Support found that teacher wellbeing is at a five-year low, with stress, insomnia, and burnout all rising.    

Working in supply teaching can be a great way to reduce teacher workload. According to a recent survey by the NEU, the primary motivation for transitioning to supply work among the existing supply workforce is the excessive workload associated with permanent teaching positions.  

Supply teachers don’t have the administrative burden of being a full-time teacher. This means that they can focus on teaching and not worry about the paperwork after they finish for the day.  

Flexibility and work-life balance 

NFER research shows that some teachers leave their posts because they can’t access flexible working. Working as a supply teacher with Teaching Personnel enables you to work on your terms. This flexibility means you can choose when and where you work.  Whether it’s part-time, short-term, or long-term assignments, supply teaching offers the flexibility to regain control over your life.   

At Teaching Personnel, we work with thousands of supply teachers. Many gravitate to the job because it enables them to pursue passion projects alongside their teaching work. For others, it means they can manage caring responsibilities.   

Variety  

There are positive differences between working in a school permanently and working on a supply basis. As a supply teacher, you’ll often be in a school anywhere from a couple of days to six weeks or even a year. You’ll get lots of experience in different schools, and work with pupils from various backgrounds. This means you’ll never get bored.   

You’ll always be in demand  

According to a report by the National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER), teacher vacancies in England have nearly doubled since before COVID-19, with school vacancies 93% higher in the academic year up to February 2023 than at the same point the year before. For a supply teachers, opportunities are vast. Teacher shortages and recruitment challenges are only set to intensify. This proves how crucial supply teachers are to the education system. Their work shields learning from the effects of staff absences, and recruitment gaps, and helps schools plan for all eventualities.   

Find your ideal teaching match 

With increased hiring pressures creating more supply teaching jobs, you can afford to be discerning in your search for the right roles. You might want a job close to home, a subject you enjoy, or specialise in. There are options in primary, secondary and SEND schools. The various types of settings enable you to test the waters so you can decide how you want to advance your career. You can apply for the openings that appeal to you and align with your goals and values.   

While some local authorities have maintained supply pool arrangements, most supply teachers in 2024 will find work through staffing agencies like Teaching Personnel.   

Consider a fresh teaching start 

Supply teaching is an enjoyable and fulfilling career choice. One where you constantly learn and meet a variety of pupils and fellow educators. If you’re considering leaving the profession due to workload and lack of flexibility, explore the benefits of supply teaching with Teaching Personnel. We’re committed to supporting our educators, providing excellent training, and ensuring you have a positive and enriching teaching experience.  

Click here to view our latest teacher jobs 

List #1

Related posts

The future of SEND support

Teaser

Special Educational Needs

Content Type

TP-Posts

Publish date

DD07YY

Summary

The future of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) support in the UK is undergoing significant focus and reform. It’s a complicated landscape as the government considers tightening th

Teaser

With EHCP reform, funding investment, and workforce development on the horizon, the future of SEND support is changing fast. This blog breaks down what schools need to know, and how to prepare.

Read more
Overcoming SEND staffing challenges in schools

Teaser

Special Educational Needs

Content Type

TP-Posts

Publish date

DD07YY

Summary

In December 2024, the government announced new specialist places in mainstream schools to better support pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Yet, staff shortages limit s

Teaser

Read more
Bridging the gap: Why SEND CPD matters for teachers

Teaser

Special Educational Needs

Content Type

TP-Posts

Publish date

DD06YY

Summary

Recent statistics highlight gaps in SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) training and support for educators. The government wants more SEND pupils in mainstream schools. At the same t

Teaser

Are your staff prepared for the rising SEND needs in mainstream schools? Diagnoses are rising, but most teachers feel unprepared. Discover why high-quality SEND CPD is essential and how your school can upskill effectively without breaking the budget.

Read more
Pupils listening to teacher in classroom
Creating inclusive classrooms: strategies for success

Teaser

Special Educational Needs

Content Type

TP-Posts

Publish date

DD06YY

Summary

In 2024, the National Audit Office (NAO) highlighted the crisis in the SEND system, noting limited progress in making mainstream schools more inclusive. Without further investment and changes, t

Teaser

With the number of pupils with special educational needs (SEN) rising, schools must take proactive steps to create inclusive learning environments. The National Audit Office (NAO) has highlighted the challenges in making mainstream schools more accessible, emphasising the urgent need for change. But while systemic improvements are necessary, educators can implement practical strategies today to support SEND pupils effectively.

Read more
How to navigate SEND funding for 2025-26

Teaser

Special Educational Needs

Content Type

TP-Posts

Publish date

DD06YY

Summary

 How to navigate SEND funding for 2025-26    As government funding for special education needs and disabilities (SEND) evolves, schools face critical challenges securing essential resources. Sch

Teaser

Struggling to make sense of SEND funding for 2025–26? Get clarity and strategy in our free SEND Funding Guide, packed with insights schools can use now.

Read more
SEND reform 2025: Delays, funding, and what schools need to know

Teaser

Education News

Content Type

TP-Posts

Publish date

DD06YY

Summary

Unpacking SEND reform: Where are we now and what’s coming next? A rapid rise in pupils diagnosed with autistic spectrum disorder, social, emotional, and mental health needs (including ADHD), as

Teaser

New reforms mean new responsibilities. Find out how to support your team with training, compliance, and smart SEND planning in our free guide.

Read more
What do schools need to know this term?

Teaser

Education News

Content Type

TP-Posts

Publish date

DD05YY

Summary

What do schools need to know this term? Change is constant in the education sector, and this term is no different. From Ofsted and pay reviews, to structural shifts like RISE and curriculum refo

Teaser

Change is constant in the education sector, and this term is no different. From Ofsted and pay reviews, to structural shifts like RISE and curriculum reform, school leaders face a challenging time. Here’s what’s currently happening across the sector.

Read more
Zuzana Vrtalova

by

Zuzana Vrtalova

Zuzana Vrtalova

by

Zuzana Vrtalova

Invigilator seeing over exams
Understanding the value of outsourced invigilators through Teaching Personnel

Teaser

Tips & Advice

Content Type

TP-Posts

Publish date

DD03YY

Summary

The True Worth of Professional Exam Invigilation When schools and colleges across England and Wales prepare for examination periods, the pressure to maintain JCQ compliance while ensuring fair ass

Teaser

Examination periods bring immense pressure to maintain compliance and ensure fair assessments. Discover how Teaching Personnel’s highly trained, JCQ-accredited invigilators provide schools and colleges across England and Wales with seamless, professional invigilation services—ensuring integrity, safeguarding, and expert support when it matters most.

Read more
Zuzana Vrtalova

by

Zuzana Vrtalova

Zuzana Vrtalova

by

Zuzana Vrtalova

Easter Payroll Dates 2025

Teaser

Educators

Content Type

TP-Posts

Publish date

DD03YY

Summary

With the Easter break and end of term coming up, it’s time to get your payroll sorted! Our Payroll team has outlined the key dates you need to ensure you receive your pay on time. Check out the ta

Teaser

Read more
Zuzana Vrtalova

by

Zuzana Vrtalova

Zuzana Vrtalova

by

Zuzana Vrtalova

The evolving landscape of SEND in the UK

Teaser

Special Educational Needs

Content Type

TP-Posts

Publish date

DD03YY

Summary

The landscape of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) is transforming. The number of pupils in the UK with special educational needs (SEN) has increased over the last five years. Toda

Teaser

Read more
Adam Davies

by

Adam Davies

Adam Davies

by

Adam Davies

company logo
Search