How to get the most out of your supply education career

Becoming a supply educator is a brilliant and rewarding way to work in education on a part-time or temporary basis. But it’s not without a few challenges.

As a supply educator, you may face the reality of routinely working with a new group of students and colleagues every time you step into a classroom or nursery. And while getting to work with new people can be exciting for some, for others, it can be difficult to work without the comforts of a familiar environment. But it doesn’t have to be.

Here are four helpful hints to get the most of your supply education career.

1 – Build rapport with your students

One of the keys to success for supply educators is building a positive relationship with your students. But this can be challenging when you’re working with a new group of students every time you book a job. However, there are a few things you can do to quickly build a rapport with them. 

First, learn your students’ names and use them whenever possible; this shows you care about them as individuals. Second, be approachable and open to answering questions or offering support. And finally, find common ground with your students by sharing personal stories or interests.

2 – Build a rapport with your colleagues

Do the exact same steps you’d do with students. Adults really are just bigger kids, after all.

It’s important to stay connected with the school staff, including your colleagues, head teachers or nursery nurses, and the support staff. This helps you get a sense of the culture and expectations, as well as any challenges or issues. 

Making this a priority will help you get to know your colleagues and build a supportive network of professionals.

3 – Plan your lessons

As a supply educator, you’ll sometimes have very little notice or information about what you’ll be doing when you take on a new assignment. 

Though with Humly, you’ll always get a detailed biography of the school or nursery, class, and subject material when you book. Our next-gen platform gives you everything you need to succeed and more.

But it’s always best practice to come prepared with lesson plans and materials to ensure you’re ready for whatever comes your way. Even if you only have a day or two with the students, you can still make a positive impact by coming prepared with engaging and relevant lessons.

4 – Be flexible

Finally, it’s important to be adaptable. 

You may find yourself in different schools and nurseries, teaching different subjects, and working with different age groups. Be open to trying new things and adjusting your education style to meet the needs of your children.

Supply education can be challenging. But it doesn’t have to be. And that’s the point.

By building rapport with your students and colleagues, planning your lessons, and being flexible, you can help reduce the challenges and enjoy all the benefits of changing lives and helping our future generations grow.