There are a number of benefits of the supply teaching profession, and these include:
Flexibility- The main benefit of supply teaching is flexibility. Supply teachers have the option to work on a full-time basis for a whole academic year, on a short-term contract or as and when they are needed. This gives them the chance to enjoy both financial security yet still accumulate plenty of free time in which to pursue other interests such as working towards qualifications, travelling or doing charity work. With the current pandemic, supply teachers are in demand to cover sick days and teachers that are self isolating.
Experience- Although many people view supply teaching as something that you do while waiting for your dream job in the education sector permanent position, it can actually be used by those who want experience and knowledge about what actually happens within schools before decide to go full time. It provides you with an insight into how different schools function and can also help you get your foot in the door of the institution you’d love to work in. Somebody who is looking to become a teacher in the future could find this experience useful; it allows you to learn how classrooms work and to see if you like dealing with kids before choosing an educational career. Supply teachers also get paid during their training years, which means that they can save up money to pay for their education when the time comes.
Good hourly pay- The great benefit of supply teaching is the higher rates of pay, usually at an increased rate then a permanent teacher. This is a great way to save extra money and use the flexibility benefit of the job too and book some fun trips away.
Variety- There are a number of significant advantages to working as a teacher on a supply basis. You can work in a mix of different schools, and of different ages, so you could work in a primary school for summer term and a secondary school for spring term. This is great for building your teaching skills and ability to adapt to new environments. As an experienced supply teacher, you will have more insight into the way different schools operate and therefore have that much more influence in your role as they can look at how you handle different situations that arise. This type of experience helps build great relationships with fellow professionals and helps to build a strong network which benefits all those involved. So, if you are looking for supply teaching jobs Cambridge then you will have the added benefit of city life with the great income too.
If you are happy to be called upon last minute- supply teaching is right up your street. Simply keeping your days free to be called in to teach and having the flexibility to alter plans means you will be able to make the most out of your supply teaching experience. Supply teachers need to be available at short notice, so it’s important that you keep your contact information updated.
