Explore early career induction, returning after a break and routes into cover supervision or teaching-assistant work. Start with the responsibilities and requirements of the role you want.
IN PLAIN ENGLISH
Experience, qualifications and statutory induction are different things. Check which route actually meets your goal before accepting a booking or paying for training.
Be specific about the next step
Are you looking for supported induction, a manageable return to school or a new support role? The guides below explain the questions to ask without promising that every supply booking leads to the same outcome.
Read how supply teaching works if you need to distinguish agency work from direct employment. Use supply teacher pay to check the pay arrangement alongside the job description.
Check the national requirements
Teacher qualification, induction, registration and disclosure systems differ across the UK. A course or placement that fits one route may not meet another nation’s requirements. Check with the relevant official body before relying on it.
Build on real experience and ask what support a school will provide. A useful next step should be clear about duties, checks, training and expectations, not just have an appealing title.
Explore the guides
Becoming a cover supervisor
A cover supervisor usually supports a class completing work set by a teacher. The exact duties, entry requirements and support vary, so read the job description rather than treating the…
Becoming a teaching assistant
Teaching assistants support learning in different ways: with a class, a group or an individual pupil. Find out what the particular role requires before choosing a course or accepting a…
ECTs and supply teaching
Supply can give an early career teacher experience, but not every booking counts towards statutory induction. Check the national rules and the arrangements for the specific post before relying on…
Returning to teaching through supply
Returning through supply can let you rebuild familiarity with schools, but the right first booking depends on your experience, time away and current circumstances. Start with a manageable role and…
Last reviewed: 20 September 2026. Official guidance and individual arrangements can change.