We’ve outlined some top tips for teachers in 2025 which will help you to deal with these shifts, and provide the best possible educational outcomes for the pupils under your tutelage.
Boost your tech skills
Technology will only grow in importance and usage within the education market in the coming years, and there are several emerging platforms that can aid the roles of supply professionals. The likes of virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and artificial intelligence (AI) will all play a more central role in education than in the past. These tools have the potential to enhance the teaching and learning experience, allowing for more interactive, personalised, and immersive lessons. In fact, and as many teachers will know, platforms like ChatGPT and other AI-driven assistants are already changing the roles of education specialists and supporting planning and student assessments, amongst other areas. This means professionals can improve their efficiency and focus on more valuable tasks, over the administrative, time-consuming ones. Investing effort into learning about new technologies and staying informed on emerging tools which can enhance your teaching and should be a priority in 2025.
Continue CPD
Training is absolutely vital to enable professionals to progress in their careers and boost their existing skills. But it’s not just key for those starting their supply journey; specialists at all experience levels need to keep their attributes relevant. The education market doesn’t stand still, and teachers will need to focus on the ‘C’ in CPD and look to continuously take on new learning opportunities to stay up to date with the latest requirements. This is particularly key with the aforementioned growth of technology, and those who can capitalise on these opportunities and develop relevant core skills will likely be in significant demand.
Boost your network
It pays to build relationships with your colleagues and broader industry contacts. Not only does this make your professional life significantly more enjoyable, it can also open doors to new opportunities. Your network can be built up by joining professional associations, or simply by engaging with fellow professionals on social media or at industry events and conferences. While the adage ‘it’s not what you know, but who you know’ is only half-true, your contacts, friends and former or current colleagues can all advocate on your behalf if you’re searching for a new supply position, or potentially identify opportunities before they’re formally available. For these reasons and more, it’s worth maintaining and broadening your network wherever possible.
Prioritise wellbeing
You won’t need us to tell you that teaching can be tough. Any readers of our recent media features will have noted some of the statistics outlining the impact that workloads, stress and anxiety are having on professionals’ mental wellbeing. This is why it’s crucial to put yourself first; if you’re not at your best, you won’t be able to provide the highest possible standards to your pupils and, frankly, health comes first. In practice, this means ensuring you have a good work-life balance in place and setting clear boundaries. This is often difficult for specialists who have to balance teaching with marking and a range of other time-consuming tasks, but it’s critical to ensure the job doesn’t get on top of you. Incorporating aspects like mindfulness and exercise into your daily routine, and continuing to provide time and space for your hobbies and personal life can make a huge difference. And if you need additional support, don’t hesitate to access mental health resources or peer support networks that will be available through trade associations, or your current employer.
Top tips for supply teachers
At a broader level, the ongoing focus on academic results will likely be complemented by a more holistic focus on other aspects, like building student wellbeing, supporting mental health and boosting additional life skills in the coming years. The new Government has already pushed its plans to provide more rounded education to pupils, and this means the role of both permanent and supply teachers will only evolve further as these plans become more integrated into the market. Those professionals who do look to stay ahead of the market, and take on new skills, will be better positioned to capitalise and secure the best available roles that fit with their personal circumstances. If you’re looking to boost your career in 2025, speak to our specialist team. Remember, the future of education isn’t just about adapting to change; it’s about driving it.
If you’re looking for your next supply role in 2025, get in touch with our expert team.
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