Introduction: Becoming a Supply Teacher in the UK

The UK education system relies heavily on supply teachers to cover short-term absences, long-term sick leave, maternity cover, or even full academic year placements.

To start working as a supply teacher, you’ll need ✅:

Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or relevant teaching qualifications.
A valid DBS check (criminal background clearance).
Recent references from schools or educational settings.
Registration with a reputable teaching agency.

The process is simple: once you’re registered with an agency, you’ll be offered assignments ranging from one-day cover to long-term placements across primary, secondary, and special education schools. Flexibility, adaptability, and classroom management skills are essential 💡.

🔎 Leading Supply Teacher Recruitment Agencies in the UK

If you’re looking to break into the education market, here are some of the top supply teacher agencies in England:

Teaching Personnel — one of the largest supply teacher agencies across England & Wales
teachingpersonnel.com+1

Hays Education — offers flexible supply roles in schools across the UK
Hays UK+1

Randstad Education — the largest education recruitment consultancy in the UK, placing supply, FE, and SEND staff
Wikipedia randstad.co.uk

Academics Ltd — specialists in daily supply, long-term, and permanent teaching placements
academicsltd.co.uk+1

Tradewind Recruitment — high-rated recruitment agency known for support and flexibility
Tradewind CV-Library