The months leading up to Christmas are some of the busiest times of the year for the education sector. During the whirlwind of new students and teacher training days, supply teachers are indispensable. They support schools in making sure learning experiences remain consistent and uninterrupted.
Always being able to adapt to new classrooms proves to be a vital skill in this field. Each teaching job is different, and supply teachers need to be able to adjust their working style on any given day. So, how can you stay confident and in control when working with a new class?
Before the class starts
First impressions count. Getting to the school ahead of time looks professional and helps you feel more prepared for the day. Take this time to familiarise yourself with your class’s layout, find the staffroom and review any lesson plans.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Schools can be very busy environments and teachers may not have time to fill you in on every detail. Get acquainted with the seating plans, teaching assistants and any SEND pupils who may need extra support. It’s also essential to determine who the first port of call is in a case of an emergency.
Get to know the students
Creating a sense of rapport with the students is one of the most effective ways to ensure the day goes smoothly. The class could feel unsettled due to the absence of their usual teacher, and you might encounter some behavioural issues. Supply teachers must know how to deal with students they don’t already have a relationship with.
Start by introducing yourself and clearly stating your expectations for the day. Learning pupils’ names can also help manage the classroom while creating a personal connection. Additionally, supply teachers can use the seating plan to their advantage. Knowing who sits where can help identify and address any behavioural issues before they get out of hand.
Being able to balance firmness with approachability is vital. Create a positive and supportive atmosphere while also making it clear that you are in charge.
Be flexible and ready to adapt
No two classes are the same, so flexibility is one of the most important qualities a supply teacher can have.
Supply teachers might walk into a class where students are focused and ready to learn or, alternatively, a more disengaged group. Being flexible allows you to adjust your teaching style to meet the needs of the pupils in front of you.
Flexibility not only helps you respond effectively but ensures that every student, regardless of the situation, gets the most out of the lesson.
Build positive relationships with other school staff
The other teachers and staff at the school can be a supply teacher’s greatest allies. Introduce yourself and ask for any advice they might have about the class or the school’s routines. Often, the staff are already knowledgeable about the student’s behaviour, learning styles, and any particular challenges. These conversations can provide invaluable insights that will help you navigate your day.
After you finish at a school, it’s a good practice to keep in touch with school staff and supply teaching agencies to keep your opportunities balanced.
Reflect on the day’s experiences
At the end of each day, take a moment to reflect on what went well and what you could improve. Each class you teach will likely pass on experiences you can learn from and take forward. Keeping a journal of your experiences can help you continually develop your skills.
Over time, this reflective learning practice will build your confidence and make you a more adaptable and successful supply teacher.
Embrace the variety of the job
One of the most significant benefits of supply teaching is the variety it offers. Supply teachers have the chance to work in different schools, with various age groups, in many subjects. Embracing this change keeps your job interesting whilst helping you develop your teaching skills.
Although supply teaching can be challenging, it’s also incredibly rewarding. You get to make a difference in the lives of countless students and bring new perspectives to each classroom you visit.
Principal Resourcing provides great opportunities for supply teachers
Schools up and down the UK rely on the support of excellent supply staff and the expertise they bring. Due to a shortage of teachers, supply staff are in high demand. Principal Resourcing Resourcing is working to ensure there are as few gaps in students’ education as possible. We offer valuable experience for ECTs and a range of opportunities for more established teachers.
Supply teaching is a fundamental part of the education system, allowing learning to continue when the unexpected happens. Around 970,000 children throughout Yorkshire, the Humber and Lincolnshire attended schools in 2023/24. We are here to ensure those schools always have enough staff to support their pupils.
We have a number of branches and recruitment hubs located from Hull to York and Lincoln. If you’re looking for supply teaching work, get in touch with a member of our team today.
