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Whether you're just starting out or you're a seasoned pro in the world of supply teaching, it always helps to have a few go to strategies up your sleeve. Here are our top tips to help you thrive in every classroom:
1. Be Prepared – But Stay Flexible
Every school is different, and no two days are the same! Bring a few tried and tested lesson ideas just in case plans aren’t ready. But don’t worry if things change—your ability to adapt is one of your greatest strengths.
2. First Impressions Matter
A warm smile, confident introduction, and clear expectations go a long way with both staff and pupils. Introduce yourself to the front office, make connections with colleagues, and take a moment to learn students' names where possible.
3. Classroom Management is Key
Stick to the school’s behaviour policy, stay calm under pressure, and use positive reinforcement. Having a few simple classroom routines ready (like attention signals or settling techniques) can help maintain a productive learning environment.
4. Leave Clear Feedback
Always leave a short note for the class teacher. Mention what you covered, any student achievements, and anything they should follow up on. It shows professionalism and helps build trust with the school.
5. Stay Connected with Your Agency
Keep your availability up to date, share your preferences, and don’t hesitate to ask for feedback. At Education Supply Pool, we’re here to support you every step of the way—so stay in touch!
Looking for your next role?
We’ve got schools across South Wales and beyond looking for enthusiastic, reliable supply staff—just like you. Reach out to our friendly team today!
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OUR REVIEWS
“ESP are such a lovely company, they work so efficiently to ensure that onboarding is such a smooth process. Everyone in the office are so lovely and welcoming. When signing up I often emailed David and Abbey who were so lovely...”
Eve Courtney
“I’ve been with ESP for the last 18 months and have found them really great. The team are always helpful, friendly and professional. The communication is great too and with that personal touch I feel as though I am part of a family..."
Dina Little
“Just an amazing agency. Even though I haven't been with them for very long I can already say they are brilliant. I've been teaching for 24 years, in the UK and Turkey and for other agencies and having just returned to the UK from Turkey...”
Ruth Buyukyildiri
“I have worked with ESP since I qualified and they have been really supportive and reliable when it has come to me taking on my first supply teaching roles. Gez has always been in touch regularly and adds a personal touch to every chat...”
Zoe Davies
“I have been with ESP for over a year and it has been amazing! I was able to gain so much experience from the schools they placed me in until they were able to find me work in my old primary school which is very local to where I live...”
Kali Power
“I’ve worked for ESP for 2 years this may. I really can’t speak highly enough about Gez and the team at ESP. They’re all so helpful and supportive, they offer fantastic career progression like training and are super friendly...”
Kylie Jenkins
“Education Supply Pool for me personally are the very very best Teaching supply agency in the field. They possess so many strengths: all the staff are so personable - always friendly & helpful & always return calls (without fail)...”
Paul Kelly
“Maesycwmmer Primary School have been using Education Supply Pool for the last few years and I cannot speak highly enough of them. We mainly deal with Sera who is 100% committed to give us the best service possible. Sera has the unique ability...”
Maesycwmmer Primary School
”Education Supply Pool is without a doubt the best Supply Agency I have ever worked with. They are extremely reliable, organised, friendly & always have the best interest of the school in mind when arranging candidates. Always fantastic Customer Service!...”
Milton Primary school
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Education Supply Pool
Office 3.7, Riverside House,
Newport Market, Upper Dock Street,
Newport, NP20 1DB
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