How to Become a Supply Teacher: Best Ways & Essential Tips (2025 Guide)
What is a Supply Teacher?
A supply teacher, also known as a substitute teacher, provides short-term or long-term cover in schools when permanent staff are absent. Supply teaching is a flexible way to work in education, offering variety, work-life balance, and the opportunity to gain experience in different schools.
1. Get the Right Qualifications
Qualified Teacher Status (QTS): In most UK schools, you need QTS to work as a supply teacher. You can achieve QTS through a PGCE, School Direct, or similar teacher training routes.
Overseas Trained Teachers: If you trained outside the UK, check if your qualifications are recognised. Some agencies help you obtain QTS or work as an unqualified teacher while you train.
DBS Check: You must have an enhanced DBS certificate (criminal background check) registered on the Update Service.
2. Register with a Reputable Supply Agency
Working with a specialist supply teaching agency streamlines the process and helps you find suitable placements quickly.
Uniform Education is one of the UK’s leading education recruitment agencies, specialising in placing supply teachers in primary, secondary, and SEN schools across London and the Home Counties. Registering with Uniform Education gives you access to:
A wide range of daily, short-term, and long-term roles.
Personalised support from experienced consultants.
Regular work in schools that suit your skills and preferences.
Tip: Register with more than one agency to maximise your opportunities, but make sure to prioritise those with the best reputation and support, like Uniform Education.
3. Prepare Your CV and Documents
Highlight your teaching experience, qualifications, and any specialist skills (SEN, EAL, behaviour management, etc.).
Include relevant references, ideally from schools or education settings.
Gather your right-to-work documents and DBS certificate.
4. Be Flexible and Reliable
Flexibility: Accepting a range of assignments (year groups, locations) increases your chances of regular work.
Punctuality and Professionalism: Schools value supply teachers who are dependable, adaptable, and professional at all times.
5. Familiarise Yourself with School Policies
Each school may have different behaviour management strategies, marking policies, and safeguarding procedures.
Arrive early, read any provided information, and ask the school office or senior staff about expectations for the day.
6. Continue Your Professional Development
Attend training offered by your agency, such as safeguarding, classroom management, or SEN courses.
Stay updated on changes in the curriculum and best practices in teaching.
Key Things to Know Before Starting as a Supply Teacher
Daily Rates: Supply teacher pay varies depending on experience, location, and type of school. Agencies like Uniform Education offer competitive rates and transparent pay policies.
No Guarantee of Work: Some weeks may be busier than others—plan your finances accordingly.
Variety of Roles: Opportunities include covering lessons, small group interventions, SEN support, and even long-term contracts.
Feedback Matters: Build a positive reputation by seeking feedback and maintaining good relationships with both schools and agencies.
Why Choose Uniform Education for Supply Teaching?
Extensive Network: Connections with hundreds of schools across London and beyond.
Dedicated Consultants: Personal support and advice from experts who understand your needs.
Simple Registration: Fast, straightforward process so you can start working quickly.
Ongoing Support: Access to professional development and training opportunities.
Ready to Get Started?
Visit Uniform Education’s website to register as a supply teacher, browse current vacancies, and find out more about the benefits of joining their team.
