Beyond those already needed to teach in the UK, there are no additional qualifications that would prevent someone from working as a supply teacher.
This means that in order to work as a substitute teacher, you will need a bachelor’s degree, GCSEs in English and mathematics (as well as science if you plan to teach students between the ages of 3 and 11), and Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), which can be obtained through an Initial Teacher Training (ITT) programme. Here you can learn more about the qualifications needed to be a replacement teacher.
The most efficient substitute teachers will typically have a few important characteristics and personal attributes in addition to these minimum standards. Flexibility pays off when you pass through the gates of various schools every week. A Supply teacher must be able to handle unfamiliarity and quickly adjust to new situations. You’ll probably have to coordinate your efforts across many age groups and curricular areas. You might be well suited to a job in supply if you can handle these abrupt swings with ease.
Important characteristics of a supply teacher
The most efficient substitute teachers will typically have a few important characteristics and personal attributes in addition to these minimum standards. Flexibility pays off when you pass through the gates of various schools every week. Supply teachers must be able to handle unfamiliarity and quickly adjust to new situations. You’ll probably have to coordinate your efforts across many age groups and curricular areas. You will be well suited to a job in supply if you can handle these abrupt swings with ease.
Additionally, such an adaptable method requires strong organisational abilities. You’ll need to be able to arrive at a school early after navigating through unfamiliar territory. You’ll also need to be equipped with all the necessary supplies and a couple backup lesson plans in case the class teacher hasn’t left one for you.
Above all, a substitute teacher needs to be extremely self-motivated and have a love for the profession of teaching. Register with Secured Supply for all the work you’ll ever need if you believe you meet the requirements.
Our recent article details the reasons why you should become a supply or substitute teacher.
