TOP TIPS FOR SUPPLY TEACHERS RETURNING FOR THE SUMMER TERM

So you have made it through the harsh winter months, the long days, dark nights and the scraping ice off your car with whatever you can get your hands on (I remember using a cassette case once!). The Easter term is the well needed pit stop that allows you to switch-off and relax before you hit the craziness of the busy exam season.

Here are the Teachers today top tips for supply teachers facing a new term in Sussex:
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1. Be prepared for the Monday morning phone call, you never know you may be needed! Preparation is key for any good supply teacher, being ready; answering the phone immediately and leaving the house quickly puts you on the front foot. You are more likely to attract more calls from the agency if you can be trusted and relied upon.
2. Be flexible and adaptable. There may be occasions when you receive a late call or be asked to travel a little further out. You never know, travelling to this school may lead to potential teaching opportunities.  However, be honest; if it is too difficult let your agency know straight away.
3. Always keep your agency fully informed of your availability through the week. This creates a trusting relationship which will ultimately provide you with more work.
4. When in the school, introduce yourself to key staff (HODs/SLT/Cover organiser).  Build positive relationships from the very beginning.  Supporting the department and going the extra mile will lead to you being asked back. Please refer to a previous blog ‘How to be a great supply teacher’
5. Take responsibility, you are there to facilitate learning and teach students. Yes, it can be difficult at times but take control and lead the students.  After all, that’s your job.
6. There will be occasions when things go wrong, remain calm at all times, think outside the box and have something up your sleeve.  Please refer to a previous blog
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7. Make sure you have a life outside of school, the beauty of day-to-day supply is that you can leave at 3pm. Use your time positively and make sure you switch off (just not in the morning between 7am-9am!!)