This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.
Top Tips for ECTs working on Supply
Working as a Supply teacher whether it is in a long-term position or a short term post is a fantastic opportunity for ECT’s to decide their career path. When you graduate as a teacher, you will not be expected to know exactly what you want to do. In Education there are a number of opportunities and a variety of schools, which all are different. It is imperative that when you go to secure your first permanent post that it is the right one for you.
Top Tips
- Ensure that you have a thorough C.V; the C.V needs to incorporate all of your relevant teaching placements and experience and what your role was in those placements. This enables a prospective employer to gauge your knowledge and skills.
- When filling out application forms ensure you spend time on each form, you read the criteria needed and you do not copy and paste on all applications. I understand you will be applying for a number of positions; however it is noticeable when this happens.
- Remember your application is your first communication with a prospective employer. Check spelling mistakes and grammar. If you fill out a form incorrectly you will sometimes find you will not be shortlisted.
- When applying for positions, don’t rush into it, step back look at the school and ensure it is a post you will want. If you make the wrong decision it could be detrimental to your career. Do not rush into the decision.
- At interview ensure that you always use examples, this will show that you are able to do the role rather than just understand the theory.
- Supply is a great way for newly qualified teachers to network, take time and step back and understand their skills and where/what they want to teach.
- If you work as a supply teacher ensure that you always take opportunities to observe other teachers.
- Get involved in the School’s Social side including organising after school clubs and lunch time clubs
- Ensure that you try different age groups and abilities, this will make you a good strong rounded teacher especially within Primary Schools
- Offer to undertake any additional CPD courses.
- If you offer to do day to day supply this is a great way to develop your behaviour management strategies. You need to ensure that you create a variety of strategies, and also follow the school’s behavioural policy.
- Ensure that you are always organised and have a bag of tricks for all year groups that are relevant and engaging.
- Always be positive, willing to go that extra mile, smile and work as part of the whole school team.
- Always share ideas and resources.
- Build a good relationship with your TA.