What must-haves do I need in my bag as a supply educator?

Being a supply educator can be a rewarding (and sometimes challenging) experience.

Every new classroom or nursery brings different students, environments, and expectations. And you won’t know what you need until you’re already there.

But what if you had something to make these transitions as smooth as possible? What if you had a game-changer? What if you had a well-prepped supply bag?

Here are the top 12 supply educator essentials every supply educator should carry to stay organised, prepared, and ready for anything the day may bring.

Daily planner or notebook

A daily planner or notebook is invaluable for organising your day.

Use it to jot down notes about lesson plans, class timings, or any specifics shared by the regular teacher or administration. A notebook can also help you keep track of observations or strategies that worked well with the students, which can be helpful if you return to the same classroom.

It’s one of the essential teaching supplies for supply teachers.

Pens, pencils, and markers (in multiple colours)

It might sound basic, but having an assortment of pens, pencils, and markers in various colours must-have items for supply teachers.

These tools help you write on the board, grade, create visually engaging materials, and keep students interested. Plus, coloured pens help you highlight points, create more engaging visuals, and keep track of which work is student or teacher-created.

Bringing extra supplies can save the day if students are unprepared.

Whiteboard markers and erasers

While most classrooms provide whiteboard markers, some might not have them in working condition.

These can be critical teaching supplies for a supply teacher.

Carry a few good-quality markers in different colours, along with a small whiteboard eraser. This way, you’re always prepared to write notes, instructions, or points for group activities.

Emergency folder with worksheets and activities

An emergency folder filled with versatile worksheets, brain teasers, and short activities can be a lifesaver (and remember, it’s your life), especially when faced with unexpected free time or a lesson change.

Aim for materials that work across age groups and can be tailored to various subjects. Activities like word searches, crossword puzzles, and simple maths worksheets are great options, as are creative prompts for journal entries.

Personalised behaviour management tools

Every classroom has its unique dynamics, but consistent behaviour management strategies are must-haves for supply teachers

Consider carrying a few small but effective behaviour management tools, like stickers, stamps, or reward charts.

These can help encourage positive behaviour and show students that good actions are recognised and rewarded, creating a productive environment even if you’re only in the classroom for a day.

Timer

A timer, whether it’s digital or on your phone, is essential for managing activities, transitions, and focused work periods.

It can help students stay on task, remain aware of how much time they have left for assignments, and encourage time management.

Plus, it helps you keep the day running smoothly and reduces the likelihood of activities running over.

First aid essentials

While most schools have a first-aid kit, having a few basics on hand can be helpful tools for supply teachers. Items like hand sanitiser, tissues, Band-Aids, and sanitising wipes come in handy for minor issues.

These essentials also help keep your workspace tidy and hygienic, which is particularly important in a shared environment.

Just make sure any first aid essentials are in line with the school or nursery’s policies.

Reusable water bottle

Teaching can be tiring, and supply educators often have busy days with few breaks.

Carrying a reusable water bottle keeps you hydrated and saves trips to the staff room. And non-perishable snacks like granola bars, nuts, or fruit snacks provide a quick energy boost between classes and keep you fueled throughout the day.

Sticky notes and flashcards

Sticky notes and flashcards are must-have items tools for supply teachers.

Sticky notes can be used for quick reminders, labelling items, or giving students feedback on their work. Flashcards are perfect for quick review sessions, spelling games, or maths drills.

Both are lightweight and don’t take up much space while adding tremendous value to any lesson.

Laptop or tablet

A digital device, such as a laptop or tablet, can be an invaluable supply educator essential.

Load it with key documents like lesson plan templates, digital copies of worksheets, educational apps, and quick-access links to teaching resources.

Many schools now rely on digital platforms, so having a device ready allows you to seamlessly access these and keep up with the school’s communication channels.

Chocolate

Because, in case of emergency – chocolate.

Whether you fancy Dairy Milk, M&M’s, Toblerone, or something else, there will come a moment someday where nothing else will do.

And nothing else shouldn’t.

The Humly App

How does the Humly App top markers, flashcards, and even chocolate as the most important supply educator essential? Simple.

It’s the most downloaded supply education app in the UK (and the world), connecting you to opportunities at +3k schools and nurseries.

Want to see every job that fits your preferences? The Humly App. Want to have the power to see every available job out there? The Humly App. Tired of missing out on new jobs while you’re working the current one? The Humly App.

“It’s really easy to accept work via the app. With Humly, I never have to worry about missing work calls while I’m teaching,” said Nicola Robinson, Primary QTS Humly Educator.

With the app, if you’re requested or if a job that fits your preferences becomes available, you’ll get a push notification. All you have to do is press a few buttons and you’ve applied. 

Plus, it sorts your timesheets in seconds, organises all the bookings you have seamlessly, and keeps useful info you need to know about any and every booking you take on.

Want it in your bag yet?

Yes please!

Why These Essentials Matter

The right teaching supplies for a supply teacher help you not only deliver lessons effectively but also ease the transition between different classrooms and year groups.

By investing a little time in preparing your supply bag, you can handle unexpected situations with confidence, create a positive environment, and leave a lasting impression on both students and faculty.

Bonus Tips for Staying Organised:

Label Your Supplies: To ensure you don’t lose track of items, label everything clearly with your name.

Keep a Bag Checklist: Make a quick checklist to keep on top of restocking supplies as needed.

Have a Folder for Student Feedback: Leave constructive feedback for the regular teacher to show what went well and areas for improvement.

Being a supply teacher can mean facing the unknown each day, but a well-prepped bag means facing that uncertainty with confidence.

And these essentials will make a difference for you, so you can make a difference with everyone you teach.