Tips for supply teachers
Starting out as a supply teacher can feel like a big adjustment, but with the right approach it can also be really rewarding. The main challenge is building authority and rapport quickly, often when you know very little about the school, pupils, or daily routines.
These habits can help you feel more prepared, more confident, and more likely to be invited back.
Use time strategically
Where possible, try to arrive early. A few extra minutes at the start of the day can make everything feel much smoother. Before lessons begin, check:
- Where you will be teaching
- Who the key staff are
- The school's behaviour policy
- Fire and lockdown procedures
- How attendance and registers work
- Who the DSL (Designated Safeguarding Lead) is
- What you are expected to do if a pupil is removed from class
Learn the school's behaviour system
Every school has its own way of managing behaviour, so it helps to follow their system as closely as possible. The Teachers' Standards also expect teachers to have proper regard for the policies and practices of the school where they are teaching.
Look for safeguarding concerns
Safeguarding is especially important for supply teachers. Current Keeping Children Safe in Education 2026 guidance applies to supply staff, so make sure you know the school's safeguarding procedures and understand how to report any concerns promptly.
Leave the classroom better than you found it
This is one of the simplest ways to make a positive impression and increase your chances of being called back.
Before you leave, try to:
- Clear up the room.
- Leave useful notes for the teacher.
- Record significant behaviour.
- Mention pupils who did particularly well.
- Flag anything the teacher genuinely needs to know.
- Keep your notes brief and useful.
Build relationships with the office and cover team
This can make a bigger difference than people expect.
Receptionists, cover managers, and department staff often notice who is reliable, calm, and easy to work with.
If a school enjoys working with you, being requested back can make supply work feel much more consistent and secure.
Not all assignments are the same
When an agency calls, it is completely reasonable to ask a few helpful questions, such as:
- What year group?
- What subject?
- What type of school?
- Is there a lesson plan?
- What behaviour system do they use?
- What time does the school start and end?
- Is there parking?
- What is the daily rate?
- Is this likely to become a longer placement?
Keep your own supply kit
It is worth keeping a small bag ready with useful basics, such as:
- A prepared lesson
- Notebook
- Printed emergency activities, including a few no-preparation tasks for different age groups
- Water
- Charger or power bank
- Spare stationery
Look after yourself
Every supply day is potentially an informal interview.
Supply teaching can be tiring because you are constantly adapting to new pupils, routines, buildings, and expectations.
If you are thinking about becoming a supply teacher rather than already doing it, you may also find it helpful to create a first-day playbook. This could include what to say when you first walk into the classroom, how to respond to difficult behaviour, what to take with you, and how to build regular work with schools that suit you.