The May resignation period is just around the corner. Are you ready for a fresh start and looking to develop your career? A move to supply is more than just about flexibility - here we delve into why supply teaching might be the smartest career move you make.
Each year as the May resignation approaches, many educators find themselves standing at a career crossroads. With the resignation deadline looming, the question often arises: ‘Do I stay in my current role, or is it time for a change?’
For some, the decision is clear. For others, especially those feeling burnt out or stuck in a position that doesn’t align with their career aspirations, it’s much harder. And often, the first alternative that comes to mind is supply teaching.
Sometimes though, supply teaching can have a bit of a negative reputation and too often it’s seen as a last resort or a quick fix. Yet the reality we see every day at SupplyWell is different. Nowadays, more educators are turning to supply not out of desperation – but out of choice.
Why? Because supply offers so much more than just flexibility. It offers a chance to reset, regain control, and rediscover your love of teaching.
Here’s why taking the plunge and resigning from your permanent position might just be the best move you can make this May.
Rediscover Your Passion For Teaching
If you’ve been teaching in one school for several years, it can be easy to lose sight of the spark that first brought you into the classroom. Routines become mundane habits. Pressure builds. The joy starts to fade.
Supply teaching shakes that up in the best way.
By working across different schools, year groups, and communities, you’re reminded of the diversity and creativity of the teaching profession. Each new classroom becomes a fresh opportunity to connect, inspire, and grow. For many educators, supply helps reignite the initial purpose that led them to the classroom.
Build Confidence Through Variety
Permanent roles can be great for consistency — but they don’t always offer variety or new challenges. With supply, you’ll face a wide range of classroom environments, behaviour management styles, and curriculum approaches.
That kind of exposure doesn’t just broaden your experience — it helps to build resilience and adaptability.
You’ll quickly gain strategies that help you succeed in any setting, making you a more skilled and self-assured professional. It’s professional development through lived experience, and it’s incredibly valuable.
Escape Burnout & Reclaim Your Wellbeing
Let’s talk honestly – you won’t find that every school is a healthy environment for you. Some are high-pressure, under-resourced, or just not the right cultural fit. Staying put for fear of the unknown can lead to burnout, stress, and a growing sense of helplessness.
Supply teaching offers an exit — not from teaching, but from what’s bringing you down.
You can keep doing what you love, without the meetings, marking, and pressures that often come with a permanent placement. Many of our educators tell us it’s the first step in healing their relationship with the profession.
Try Before You Commit
One of the biggest advantages of supply is that it gives you insight into different school cultures without the pressure of commitment.
Think of it as test driving various schools. You can experience how different schools and Multi Academy Trusts operate, meet new leadership teams, and figure out what you want from your next permanent role — all while still earning and building your CV.
And if you do want something longer-term? There are always opportunities for educators to work in long-term placements. Or even return to a permanent role through the connections made while on supply.
Myth-Busting: Supply Can Be Financially Stable
One of the biggest myths about supply teaching is that it’s financially unstable or inconsistent. But the reality is with the right people behind you (like our team!) and a good reputation, supply teaching can offer regular work, dependable income, and even better work-life balance than many permanent roles.
At SupplyWell, we carefully match our educators with schools that need consistent, high-quality teachers. Some of our educators work in one school for weeks or months at a time, while others prefer a more varied schedule — but either way, there’s structure and support behind the scenes.
It’s Not A Step Back — It’s A Step Forward
If you’re thinking about leaving your current school this May, supply teaching isn’t a detour. It’s a strategic choice. One that offers clarity, variety, and space to reset.
It’s not just about working fewer hours or avoiding staff meetings (though that’s nice too). It’s about taking charge of your career — and finding joy in teaching again.
Thinking About Making A Move?
If you’re on the fence, we get it. Change is daunting. But it can also be necessary.
The SupplyWell team are here to help you explore your options before the May resignation comes and goes – with no pressure or commitment. Just honest advice and real opportunities to enhance your career.
The resignation deadline is May 31st. Don’t let the door close on your next chapter.
Register with SupplyWell or book a chat with our team today.