However, few people – even those inside the education market – fully understand what this portion of the workforce truly has to offer and the potential value they can add. Indeed, there are several common misconceptions about these roles that have been widespread for some time. That’s why we’ve looked to tackle some of the more common myths surrounding supply teaching and highlight the lesser-known benefits of working with these professionals.
The top myths of supply teaching
MYTH: Supply teaching is only for retirees or those looking to wind down their careers
As the expert in supply teacher recruitment, we recognise that the market is anything but homogeneous. While this particular myth may have been true several decades ago, the workforce now comprises a variety of different professionals with varying motivators and experience levels. In fact, according to a 2021 survey, nearly one in five supply professionals had operated in the sector for less than half a decade. Increasingly, more professionals are being drawn towards a supply career for the opportunity to secure a better work-life balance, or to benefit from a range of different environments and cultures they would not gain in permanent roles.
MYTH: Supply teachers aren’t fully qualified
All professionals operating within UK education must meet the same rigorous standards, and this also applies to supply specialists. This means they must secure Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and demonstrate up-to-date knowledge of their specific subject area. In fact, Ofsted regularly highlights that high-quality support teachers are a vital component of ensuring quality educational standards. Put simply, it would be impossible to secure a teaching role without holding the appropriate qualifications and meeting the significant regulatory requirements.
MYTH: Supply work is unpredictable and financially unstable
This is another largely unfounded concern. While supply specialists do not have the same level of security as their permanent counterparts, they do benefit from greater flexibility and the ability to take on a wider variety of roles. In addition, our bank approach means that many professionals will gain from regular and often longer-term placements, potentially spanning entire terms, which are becoming increasingly commonplace.
MYTH: Schools see supply teachers as a last resort
Far from being solely relied on as a fallback, many supply professionals form a key part of schools’ strategic long-term planning, particularly those that partner with transparent and more ethical providers. As outlined above, these individuals are seen by Ofsted as pivotal, and institution leaders recognise the core value they offer in ensuring they drive the highest educational standards. In addition, with the market facing worsening skills shortages, it’s highly likely that many will rely on this portion of the workforce more heavily in the coming years.
MYTH: Supply staff are out of touch with school culture and systems
The greater recognition of the supply role and the pressure facing all establishments means that professionals are now expected to hit the ground running. While the onus is on the school or trust to inform teachers about specific protocols or systems, the majority of specialists keep themselves up to speed with safeguarding procedures, behavioural initiatives, and national curriculum changes, meaning they are well-prepared to adapt to different surroundings at pace. Many schools and trusts are also increasingly providing supply staff with digital welcome packs and onboarding plans to ensure they are aligned with that particular location ahead of starting their role. Indeed, we also hear from many of the establishments that we partner with that their supply staff are indistinguishable from permanent employees in terms of integration and immediate impact.
We could go on, and there are several other widespread myths about supply teachers that are either outdated or simply not true. We partner with some of the best and brightest education professionals around who provide a truly outstanding service to those under their tutelage. And in an environment where all leaders are under pressure to balance costs with quality and continuity, our specialists offer more than just a ‘quick fix’, and act as a resilient, adaptable and flexible component of the wider workforce.
If your school or trust is looking to build its expert bank of talent, or if you are a supply specialist looking to work with us in this way, then get in touch with our expert team.
Read more of our blogs or search for your next specialist supply role.
