Supply teaching in England

Supply teachers cover for absent staff — from a single day to a whole term. It suits people who want flexibility, are returning to teaching, are new and building experience, or want to try different schools before committing to a permanent post. Most supply work is found through recruitment agencies, though some local authorities and schools run their own supply arrangements.

Types of supply work

How to find supply work

• • Supply agencies — the most common route; they match you to schools and handle payroll.
• • Local-authority supply pools — some councils run their own, which can offer better pay and pension access.
• • Directly with schools — building relationships with local schools who call you first.

Pay and conditions

Supply teaching is usually paid as a daily rate, which varies by region, experience and subject. Two things are worth watching closely: how you’re paid — PAYE through the agency or through an umbrella company (which changes your deductions) — and the Agency Workers Regulations “12-week rule”, which entitles you to equal basic pay and conditions once you’ve done 12 weeks in the same role. You generally won’t be paid during school holidays on agency work. Always ask for a Key Information Document setting out your pay and deductions before you start.

Pros and cons

How to get started

• • Have QTS, an up-to-date enhanced DBS (ideally on the update service) and references ready.
• • Register with one or more reputable agencies — look for those audited against the REC education standard.
• • Compare day rates and pay arrangements (PAYE vs umbrella) across agencies before committing.
• • Ask local authorities whether they run a supply pool.

New to teaching, or weighing up your options? See our how to become a teacher and ECT induction guides, or browse permanent and fixed-term teaching jobs.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need QTS to do supply teaching?

To work as a supply teacher you normally need Qualified Teacher Status. Schools also use unqualified cover supervisors to supervise classes, but that is a different, lower-paid role.

How do supply teachers get paid?

Most supply teachers are paid a daily rate through an agency. You may be paid via the agency’s PAYE payroll or through an umbrella company — check the deductions carefully. You’re generally not paid during school holidays unless you’re on a specific contract.

What is the 12-week rule?

Under the Agency Workers Regulations, once you’ve worked in the same role for 12 weeks you’re entitled to equal basic pay and conditions to a comparable permanent employee. It’s a key thing to track on longer placements.

Can supply teachers join the Teachers’ Pension Scheme?

If you’re paid directly by a school or local authority you can usually be in the Teachers’ Pension Scheme. Supply agencies can’t offer it, though some local-authority supply pools can — worth asking about if a pension matters to you.

Can early career teachers do supply?

Yes, you can do short-term (day-to-day) supply before starting your statutory induction, but there are time limits and day-to-day supply doesn’t count towards induction. Check the current rules in the DfE’s induction guidance and our ECT induction guide.

How do I choose a good supply agency?

Look for agencies audited against the REC’s education standard, be clear on whether you’ll be paid PAYE or via an umbrella company, ask for a Key Information Document setting out your pay and deductions, and compare day rates across a few agencies.