Supply teaching is often described as flexible, varied, and rewarding. For many teachers in Hull and East Yorkshire, it is also a practical way to continue working in education while maintaining control over when and where they work.
If you are exploring supply teaching for the first time, returning to the classroom after a break, or considering a change from a permanent role, it is natural to have questions. How does supply teaching actually work? What should you expect day to day? And how do you find reliable work in local schools?
This practical guide is designed to answer those questions. It explains how supply teaching works in Hull and East Yorkshire, what schools look for, and how working with an experienced supply teaching recruitment agency like Principal Resourcing can support you throughout the process.
1: Understanding what supply teaching really involves
Supply teaching is about providing continuity for pupils when their usual teacher is unavailable. This could be due to illness, training, maternity leave, or longer-term staffing changes.
Assignments can vary in length. Some supply teachers work day to day, covering short absences at short notice. Others take on longer placements that may last several weeks or even a full term. In longer roles, you may be asked to plan lessons, mark work, and take on wider responsibilities.
Supply teaching opportunities are available across primary, secondary, special educational needs, and alternative provision settings. The variety is one of the main reasons teachers are drawn to this type of work.
2: Deciding whether supply teaching is right for you
Supply teaching suits a wide range of teachers, but it helps to be honest about what you are looking for.
If you are an early career teacher, supply teaching can help you build confidence, gain classroom experience, and see how different schools operate. It allows you to develop behaviour management skills and explore different year groups or subjects.
If you are an experienced teacher, supply teaching may offer greater flexibility or a better work life balance. Some teachers choose supply after relocating, stepping back from leadership, or returning from a career break.
Ask yourself what matters most to you. Is it flexibility, variety, local work, or the chance to ease back into teaching? Being clear about this will help you and your supply teaching agency make the right choices.
3: Why location matters in supply teaching
The Hull and East Yorkshire region has a wide range of schools, academies, and trusts, which creates consistent demand for supply teachers across different phases and subjects.
Local knowledge plays an important role in finding the right position for you. Travel time, school culture, and expectations can all affect how positive your experience is. Working with a supply teaching agency in Hull that has that knowledge and that schools already trust can make a significant difference.
Principal Resourcing has supported schools across Hull and East Yorkshire for over 20 years. While we’ve focused on Hull and Easy Yorkshire in this guide, our teams work extensively to support schools in neighbouring areas of North Yorkshire and North East Lincolnshire too. That local understanding helps match teachers to schools where they are most likely to feel comfortable and valued.
4: Registering with a supply teaching recruitment agency
To work as a supply teacher, you will need to register with a reputable supply teaching recruitment agency. This process ensures that safeguarding requirements are met and that schools can have confidence in the teachers they welcome into their classrooms.
When registering with Principal Resourcing, you will be asked to provide qualifications, proof of identity, references, and a full employment history. An enhanced DBS check is required before you can work in schools.
You will also have a conversation about your experience, availability, and preferences. This is an important part of the process. Being open about what you are comfortable with helps the agency find placements that suit you.
5: How supply teaching work is usually offered
Once registered, your supply teaching agency will contact you when suitable work becomes available. This may be in advance for planned absences or on the day for short-notice cover.
You are usually free to accept or decline work depending on your availability. Clear communication is essential. Letting your consultant know when you are available helps them support you effectively.
Over time, many supply teachers find they are requested by name by schools they have worked in before. Building these relationships can lead to more regular and predictable work.
6: Preparing for your first supply teaching placement
Preparation helps reduce nerves and sets you up for a positive first day. Most supply teachers remember their first placement; a little preparation makes the difference between feeling unsettled and feeling confident.
Before arriving, make sure you know the school location, start time, and any dress code expectations. Bringing basic resources such as pens, a notebook, and a calm, confident approach can make a big difference.
When you arrive, introduce yourself to staff and ask about routines, behaviour policies, and safeguarding procedures. Schools appreciate supply teachers who are professional, adaptable, and willing to ask questions when needed.
7: What schools expect from supply teachers
Schools rely on supply teachers to maintain consistency and professionalism. While you may not know the pupils or routines, your role is to provide a stable learning environment.
This includes following lesson plans where provided, managing behaviour in line with school policies, and ensuring pupils feel supported and safe.
Flexibility is important. Plans may change, or you may be asked to support a different class. A positive, adaptable attitude goes a long way toward building trust with school staff.
8: Pay and flexibility in supply teaching
One of the main benefits of supply teaching is the flexibility it offers. You can often choose how many days you work and which types of placements you accept.
Pay varies depending on the nature of the role. Day-to-day supply may differ from longer-term placements that involve planning, marking, and additional responsibilities.
A reputable supply teaching agency will explain pay rates clearly before you accept work. This transparency helps teachers feel confident and informed, and Principal Resourcing takes it very seriously.
9: Using supply teaching to build your career
Supply teaching is not just a short-term option. Many teachers use it to develop professionally and explore future opportunities.
Working in different schools allows you to see a range of teaching approaches and leadership styles. It can help you refine your own practice and understand what type of environment suits you best.
In many cases, supply teaching leads to permanent roles. Schools often recruit teachers they already know and trust.
10: Why choosing an established supply teaching agency matters
The agency you work with plays a central role in your supply teaching experience.
An established supply teaching agency in Hull that schools rely on will have strong relationships, clear communication, and a deep understanding of the local education landscape.
Principal Resourcing is one of the longest-established teaching agencies in Hull. That experience means teachers are supported by consultants who understand local schools and value long-term relationships.
Taking the next step in supply teaching
If you are considering supply teaching in Hull and East Yorkshire, having the right support makes all the difference. Principal Resourcing also support schools and teachers offering supply teaching roles in North Yorkshire and North East Lincolnshire.
Supply teaching offers flexibility, variety, and the chance to continue making a meaningful impact in education. With guidance from an experienced supply teaching recruitment agency, it can also offer stability and progression.
Registering with Principal Resourcing is a practical first step for teachers who want local work, professional support, and a trusted partner in their supply teaching journey.
