In this article, we’re going to be talking about the benefits of being a substitute teacher. These include the ability to decide when and where you want to work, making it easier to get into teaching, flexible hours for other jobs or school, and having the chance to be creative in your teaching methods. In addition, we need to touch on the fact that today, teachers do not need to take themselves too seriously, while also taking their job seriously by setting high expectations and planning thoroughly.
Firstly, let’s make one thing clear. Supply teaching Cambridge is not for everyone. If you crave the security of a permanent role and don’t like the idea of your income fluctuating, it’s probably not going to be the best solution for you. However, if you’re retired and looking to wind down hours, or new and looking to gain experience in different schools and teaching settings, then it’s going to be a great fit.
As a supply teacher, you’ll need to enjoy the opportunity of meeting and working with new people on a daily basis. You may be used to having your class for one year group in one school, but the reality is that as a supply teacher it’s very different. Being flexible enough to take on any job can also be key; we live in an ever-changing world where events happen that impact the time and subject we teach. So you could find yourself moving from an English-based lesson to helping students practice their dance moves!
The other challenge is managing expectations and communicating well with parents and teachers alike. For some this comes naturally; for others, it will require further experience or guidance from senior staff. As someone who has been both a supply teacher and course leader, I’m here to tell you that it is all worth it – the positives far outweigh the negatives.
There are always going to be those who try to take advantage of your role. You’ll be asked to do things outside your job description or responsibilities as a supply teacher – usually, because they do not have the capacity or time. It’s important to stick to what you’re being paid for and follow instructions from senior staff. One way to avoid these problems is being clear about your boundaries from day one with an employer.
It can also feel daunting taking on a new class for a week without knowing much about them or their previous teachers. The best way to carve a successful supply teaching career is to choose the right reaching agency. They will keep you focused on good opportunities. They also often know about current vacancies or upcoming jobs months before they reach the wider market. Supply teaching has long been popular among university students, but it is becoming more sought after by graduates as well.