Spring into a New Teaching Career: Embrace Supply Teaching this February

As Spring approaches, it's a critical date for many teachers in the UK who may be contemplating their professional future ahead of the February 28th resignation deadline. While teaching remains one of the most rewarding professions, it's also one of the most challenging. Statistics show that nearly half of teachers in England plan to leave the profession by 2028. 

The latest workforce survey by the Department for Education (DfE) revealed that 42,000 teachers resigned from state schools in 2023/24, representing 9.5% of the teaching workforce. Workload pressures and lack of flexibility continue to be major factors driving these resignations. 

If you're considering a change this Spring, alternatives within education can offer greater balance and satisfaction. 

Continue teaching without the stress 

At Teaching Personnel, we understand the challenges educators face. The burden of administrative tasks, endless marking, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance can become overwhelming. That's why we offer a flexible solution that allows you to continue doing what you love—teaching—without the added stress. 

Benefits of supply teaching 

With longer notice periods than most other professions, educators have time to carefully consider their next move. Supply teaching can be a refreshing change. As the backbone of schools, supply teachers can try new teaching methods, upskill, and gain diverse teaching experiences. Each day brings new challenges and rewards, allowing you to meet new colleagues and experience different classroom environments. 

Beat workload pressures 

Recent surveys indicate that the primary reason for transitioning to supply work is the excessive workload in permanent posts. A government-commissioned report in December 2024 found that educators estimate they work more than eight "unnecessary hours" per week on average, often taking on additional roles beyond teaching. 

The World Health Organisation (WHO) warns that working more than 55 hours a week is detrimental to health, yet many educators report working 60-hour weeks. A January 2025 study by Education Support found that teacher wellbeing has hit a six-year low, with stress, insomnia, and burnout all on the rise. 

Supply teaching offers a way to significantly reduce teacher workload. Supply teachers can focus on teaching without the administrative burden of full-time positions, allowing them to leave work at work. 

Flexibility and work-life balance 

Recent research shows that lack of access to flexible working is a key factor in teacher attrition. Working as a supply teacher with Teaching Personnel enables you to work on your terms, choosing when and where you work. This flexibility allows you to regain control over your life, whether you're pursuing passion projects or managing caring responsibilities.  

Variety 

Supply teaching offers the opportunity to work in various schools for different durations, from a few days to an entire academic year. This variety exposes you to diverse educational settings and pupils from various backgrounds, ensuring you never get bored. 

You'll always be in demand 

According to the latest report by the National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER), teacher vacancies in England have increased by 105% since pre-COVID levels. For supply teachers, this means abundant opportunities. The crucial role of supply teachers in mitigating the effects of staff absences and recruitment gaps is more important than ever. 

Find your ideal teaching match 

With increased hiring pressures creating more supply teaching jobs, you can be selective in your search for the right roles. Whether you prefer a job close to home, a specific subject, or specialisation in primary, secondary, or SEND schools, there are options to align with your goals and values. 

Consider a fresh teaching start this spring 

Supply teaching offers an enjoyable and fulfilling career choice, providing continuous learning opportunities and exposure to 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. 

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