Supply Teaching: How To Keep The Bookings Coming

clock in bed

When speaking to new applicants, I can not count on both hands how many times I have been asked 'but how much work will I get?'. It's an understandable question. When starting any job we want the guarantee that we'll be able to pay the bills and put food on the table, it's as simple as that. However what isn't so simple is ensuring that you're inundated with day-to-day work when registering with an agency. With supply being temporary, it is essential that you make your mark upon the schools you get to work in and there lies the answer to that ever occurring question. The amount of placements you get is determined by how much you're willing to put in, so here are our top teacher tips on how to get booked...

Have all your documents to hand when registering

Turning up to a registration with all of the required paperwork means that you'll be out on the road in no time. You should receive an email from your agency with anything they wish you to bring along, but just incase you've missed the memo, include the following:

Up to date CV

Full Employment History

Photo ID (Passport or Driving Licence).

Eligibility to work within the UK Either your Passport (please bring VISA if applicable) or Full Birth Certificate together with proof of NI number.

2 x proofs of address (these can be bank or credit card statements, utility bills, HMRC or official documentation).

Name Change Documentation (if applicable).

Proof of Qualifications/Teacher Reference Number

DBS disclosure issued within the last three years.

Be flexible

Getting to pick and choose when and where you work is one of the many great things about supply work, however if you want plenty of placements then it's important to make yourself available. Give yourself the chance to get into as many schools as possible even if it's just for a lesson or two, the more your face is seen, the more it'll be remembered.

Be ready

Phone calls for full or part days can come in from as early as 7am, so get that alarm set. Prepare for a quick start and always have your phone to hand. Consider traffic, lunch, where you are going and how you are getting there before you begin the journey so that you can rest assured you'll arrive on time. Every school is after a teacher that is punctual so make a fantastic impression before the lesson has even started.

Glue your phone to your hand

You miss a call from your agency and by the time you've called back the work has gone, sigh. These things happen, but it's vital you keep an eye on your phone to prevent it from being a regular occurence. Continue to check your phone on lunch breaks and in between lessons too, it's not uncommon for future work to be dished out whilst you're busy at a school so keep on top of your messages.

Make a good impression

It goes without saying that you should strive to make yourself stand out. Speak to teachers, introduce yourself to everyone that you meet and show off your skills in the classroom. Long term placements are forever cropping up in schools all over the country, so by establishing relationships with staff you'll be at the top of the go-to list.

Practise good behavioural management

We've all been tried and tested in a classroom, but it's how you deal with it that counts. Although you may have your own ways of solving these issues, it's incredibly important that you find out the school's policies and put them into practise. Resolving problems efficiently and effectively will not only display your strength as a teacher, but that you fit in with the school's way of managing their pupils too.

AND keep on top of the agency...

Found yourself with an extra few days free? Want to work at a specific school? It's always good to give your agency a call and keep them in the loop. Reminding them that your completely flexible AND raring to go means that your name will stay fresh in their mind when the work comes in.

Need more advice? Contact us via email/phone or tweet us your own helpful tips at @staffroomed.