‘The NASWUT union are calling for urgent action to regulate all supply agencies and introduce national standards for the employment of supply teachers’
I agree, a more regulated approach is required to ensure that agencies are being fair to staff. I do fear that some agencies may be exploiting staff, NQTs, those who do not hold QTS or staff from abroad may well be some of the possible groups. Is this reason enough to ‘miss out on pay’? Absolutely not!!
How can we ensure that agencies are being fair to staff in terms of pay and support?
- Some agencies have a lack of understanding around the educational system. I believe all agencies should have an experienced teacher working within the organisation, thus allowing a deep understanding of teaching, school systems and policies. You wouldn’t have a tree surgeon leading a team of doctors in a surgery; because you have been to a school does not mean you have an understanding of education!!
- Directors at Teachers today still regularly work in both Primary and Secondary schools. We are able to keep our fingers on the pulse of the changing face of education and therefore able to guide staff in schools.
- Teachers today provide quality CPD because of the experience that we have gained in behaviour management, teaching & learning and assessment. We regularly support through observations in schools and help with interview preparation.
- Teachers today staff are paid-to-scale after a initial introduction period. This is communicated; time-lines and dates discussed.
- Teachers today staff need to be fully informed of both PAYE and self employment status. We make sure they are.
- Teachers today staff are fully informed of expectations when starting a long term contract or fulfilling short term day work.
- Schools have a clear understanding of our rates, we do not charge excessive fees. We build relationships on trust and quality of service.
Scrutiny of teaching agencies needs regulation and I have suggested particular practices that can be put into place. However, you cannot change the core belief of the agency. What are their real motives for staff? Are they looking at them as a commodity or to support, listen and develop them for that long-term position? At Teachers today focus on the later.
LET’S TALK About your options
Book A Callback With Neil Now