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Guide To A Successful Supply Experience
Preparation
It is essential that Supply Teachers arrive in school equipped for the task. Remember always take along with you your PE Kit or trainers just in case!
Time Keeping
For assignments that are pre-booked, arrange to arrive at the school so that you can have time to meet “Key staff” and learn the timetable requirements and layout of the school. For assignments organised on the same day try to arrive as early as possible.
School Policies
It is vitally important for supply teachers to familiarise themselves with school policies on discipline and equal opportunities. Do not commit the school to any kind of an agreement regarding a pupil, without first clearing the issue with a member of the senior staff. Serious disciplinary matters should be reported and the school will deal with them accordingly. (Physical punishment of any type is strictly illegal in the United Kingdom). Physical contact should be avoided please do not put yourselves at risk.
Dress Code
Teachers are professional people and should dress smartly. Dress options can then be tailored appropriately to reflect the range of actives to be undertaken. Some schools have a more formal dress code and inappropriate dress can give offence. If this is the case we will advise you.
Curriculum
For assignments taken on the day, supply teachers should expect to teach the curriculum and use the materials provided by the school, but even on these occasions, supply teachers are strongly advised to have their own backup materials available that are suitable to the age of the pupils.
Primary Supply teachers must remember that it is only good practice to mark the work at the end of the day, and ALL Supply Teachers need to leave their handover notes to inform the returning teacher what’s has been covered/happened during the day.
End of the Day
Supply teachers should be expected to leave the classroom in a tidy condition. Before leaving the school, ensure that all pupils under your care have left the school safely, complete with there belongings. Make sure there is time to say ”goodbye” to the head teacher of senior staff on leaving the school and if it is the end of the assignment, that a timesheet is completed and signed and sent off for processing.