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As 31st October approaches, it’s a significant date for many teachers in the UK who may be considering their professional future. Teaching has always been one of the most rewarding professions. Yet, it’s also one of the toughest. Almost half of teachers in England plan to quit by 2027.
The latest workforce survey by the Department for Education (DfE) found that 40,000 teachers resigned from state schools in 2021/22, 9% of the teaching workforce. There are many reasons for resignations, with workload pressures and lack of flexibility as major factors.
If you’re contemplating a change, alternatives within education offer greater balance and satisfaction.
Continue teaching without the stress
At Teaching Personnel, we understand educator challenges. Administrative tasks, never-ending marking, and a healthy work-life balance can become untenable. That’s why we offer a flexible solution that enables you to continue doing what you love—teaching—without the added stress.
Benefits of supply teaching
Educators have longer notice periods than professionals in most other jobs, so it pays to spend some time thinking about your next move. Supply teaching can be a refreshing change. Supply teachers are the backbone of schools. Working as a supply teacher enables you to try new teaching methods, upskill, and gain more teaching experience. You can meet new colleagues, experience alternative classroom environments, and develop new skills. You’ll find that each day is unique, bringing new challenges and rewards.
Beat workload pressures
The NEU’s most recent survey found that in recent years, the single reason for moving into supply work among the current supply workforce was the workload in permanent posts. In July 2023, the government commissioned a report on workload reduction. It found that educators estimate they worked more than seven “unnecessary hours” a week on average. Educators often take on extra roles and feel like social workers, carers, and safeguarders.
There is also ‘empty’ work, like producing data for things that seem pointless and extra admin.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) states that working more than 55 hours a week damages health. But many educators are doing that. Some educators report working 60-hour weeks. A November 2023 study by the mental health charity Education Support found that teacher wellbeing is at a five-year low, with stress, insomnia, and burnout all rising.
Working in supply teaching can be a great way to reduce teacher workload. According to a recent survey by the NEU, the primary motivation for transitioning to supply work among the existing supply workforce is the excessive workload associated with permanent teaching positions.
Supply teachers don’t have the administrative burden of being a full-time teacher. This means that they can focus on teaching and not worry about the paperwork after they finish for the day.
Flexibility and work-life balance
NFER research shows that some teachers leave their posts because they can’t access flexible working. Working as a supply teacher with Teaching Personnel enables you to work on your terms. This flexibility means you can choose when and where you work. Whether it’s part-time, short-term, or long-term assignments, supply teaching offers the flexibility to regain control over your life.
At Teaching Personnel, we work with thousands of supply teachers. Many gravitate to the job because it enables them to pursue passion projects alongside their teaching work. For others, it means they can manage caring responsibilities.
Variety
There are positive differences between working in a school permanently and working on a supply basis. As a supply teacher, you’ll often be in a school anywhere from a couple of days to six weeks or even a year. You’ll get lots of experience in different schools, and work with pupils from various backgrounds. This means you’ll never get bored.
You’ll always be in demand
According to a report by the National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER), teacher vacancies in England have nearly doubled since before COVID-19, with school vacancies 93% higher in the academic year up to February 2023 than at the same point the year before. For a supply teachers, opportunities are vast. Teacher shortages and recruitment challenges are only set to intensify. This proves how crucial supply teachers are to the education system. Their work shields learning from the effects of staff absences, and recruitment gaps, and helps schools plan for all eventualities.
Find your ideal teaching match
With increased hiring pressures creating more supply teaching jobs, you can afford to be discerning in your search for the right roles. You might want a job close to home, a subject you enjoy, or specialise in. There are options in primary, secondary and SEND schools. The various types of settings enable you to test the waters so you can decide how you want to advance your career. You can apply for the openings that appeal to you and align with your goals and values.
While some local authorities have maintained supply pool arrangements, most supply teachers in 2024 will find work through staffing agencies like Elevation Healthcare.
Consider a fresh teaching start
Supply teaching is an enjoyable and fulfilling career choice. One where you constantly learn and meet a variety of pupils and fellow educators. If you’re considering leaving the profession due to workload and lack of flexibility, explore the benefits of supply teaching with Elevation Healthcare. We’re committed to supporting our educators, providing excellent training, and ensuring you have a positive and enriching teaching experience.
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