I still remember my first day walking into a class with no plan, no names, and 25 curious faces watching me figure it out. It felt like flying a plane right after takeoff.

If you’ve had that feeling too, this guide will help.

We’ll go through smart substitute teacher strategies, simple classroom management tricks, and how to stay flexible without feeling lost. You’ll also get easy ways to connect with students, adapt fast, and stay in control even when there’s no plan waiting for you.

On your first day, start with the basics: smile, make eye contact, and set a calm tone. Don’t worry about delivering a perfect lesson. Focus on creating a space where learning can happen.

Ready to make it happen in real life? Let’s begin.

Substitute Teacher Strategies That Actually Work

You’re standing at the door with a class list, a marker, and a room full of students who’ve never seen you before. What you do in the next few minutes matters more than most people realise. The way you enter the classroom can affect the entire day, especially if it’s your first time in the classroom.

So, you need to acquire proper substitute teacher strategies that are simple, flexible, and work at any grade level. Here you go.

• Greet students as they enter
  A calm “Hi, I’m Mr Green” or “Welcome in, Year 6” can change the tone positively before the day even begins. When students hear their name and see a friendly face, they’re more likely to respond with respect. You can try using a quick get-to-know-you prompt like “What’s your favourite snack?” to start building rapport.
• Write your name and the day’s plan on the board
  This helps students feel grounded. Use short, clear headings like “Reading, Maths, Free Writing” so they know what’s coming. For visual learners, draw simple icons beside each task. If your class includes special education students, this kind of visual support can make a big impact on the students.
• Start with one calm, clear rule
  A phrase like “We listen while others are speaking” works across classrooms. Then model it by waiting your turn and listening fully when students talk. It sets a tone of mutual respect. When someone forgets, quietly point back to the rule. It’s a teaching tip that works with younger students and older ones alike.
• Assign simple classroom jobs
  Students love feeling helpful. Ask someone to hand out books, another to track time, or a third to collect pencils. Jobs create small pockets of ownership and reduce downtime. Bonus Tip: Students who usually drift off-task often engage more when they have something meaningful to do.
• Leave a thoughtful note
  A few sentences can make a teacher’s return much easier. Mention which students helped, what work was completed, and anything unusual that came up. If you can, leave specific praise: “Jayden helped clean up without being asked.” These notes also show school administrators that you handled the day with care.

Even if you’re only there for one day, these teaching strategies help students feel supported and help you teach with calm confidence.

How to Handle Behaviour Without Becoming the Enemy

Classroom behaviour often changes the moment a substitute teacher enters. Students may act differently because their regular routine feels disrupted. They’re not reacting to you personally, but to the change in structure. Bringing a steady presence helps the class settle and gives you a solid base to teach from.

So, start by asking students how the day normally begins. Most will happily tell you. That one question gives you a sense of flow and shows students that their experience matters. You’ll start earning respect just by being open to their input.

Instead of raising your voice to cut through the noise, use a calm cue. Try a hand signal, a quiet countdown, or even a simple “Let’s bring it back.” These tools support classroom management without creating conflict. They also cut down the need to repeat yourself.

Here’s a quick guide for common situations:

Challenge	Response That Helps
Talking over you	Pause, look toward the student, wait silently
Side conversations	Quietly check in with a question or eye contact
Pushback or resistance	Offer a clear choice between two acceptable actions

Older students appreciate subtlety. Keep your tone calm and handle redirection privately when possible. It protects their confidence and keeps the class focused.

Your teaching style plays a part, too. Some teachers work best with a firm structure, while others prefer a more flexible flow. What matters most is being consistent. Clear expectations help students feel safe and ready to learn.

Behaviour management is about understanding what’s behind the disruption. Are they confused? Bored? Struggling? When you respond with insight instead of frustration, you support the learning process, not just discipline.

When the classroom feels steady, students can get back to learning. And you can get back to teaching with confidence.

Got No Lesson Plan? Try These On-the-Spot Fixes

Imagine you walk into the classroom. The bell rings. The desk is clean, the whiteboard is blank, and there’s no sign of today’s lesson plans. It’s a moment every substitute teacher faces at some point, and it doesn’t need to throw off the day. There are easy ways to teach, engage, and help students stay focused, even when you’re working from scratch.

Here are some flexible activities that work across grade levels:

• “What If” class discussion
  Ask something like, “What if school started at 1 pm?” Let students take turns answering. This encourages participation and gets them talking and thinking. It works well as group work and helps ease them into the day.
• Silent Sketch Time
  Have students draw a scene from their favourite story, subject, or recent topic. Pair it with graphic organisers for structure or use it to introduce new concepts. This also supports special education students who benefit from visual supports.
• Quick teach-backs
  Ask students to explain something they’ve recently learned. This reveals where they’re confident or where more review is needed. It also reinforces the learning process through peer expression.
• Creative writing challenge
  Use prompts like, “Write about a time something unexpected happened.” It helps students practise storytelling and builds confidence in expressing ideas.

If you’re unsure what’s been covered in this classroom, ask other teachers nearby. They may offer useful context or spare lesson plans that align with the current topic.

Teaching tip: Keep a few simple lesson plans in your bag. Think word games, short writing tasks, or single-sheet activities that work across subjects. According to the Education Endowment Foundation, short, structured tasks like these can improve memory and focus, even with older students.

When the plans are missing, you’re still in charge. These quick strategies help students stay on track and allow you to teach with confidence.

Encourage Students to Take Part and Shine

One of the best ways to help your students is by motivating them to take part in various activities. When you encourage students to take part early on, it opens the door to stronger engagement and smoother classroom behaviour. These three approaches help keep students involved, motivated, and confident.

Ask a question they can’t get wrong

Start the day with something simple like, “What’s your favourite thing about weekends?” Based on our firsthand experience, we can say that most students can answer such comforting questions without feeling pressure. It builds connections and gives even quiet students a chance to join in. Questions like this create early participation without any risk of being wrong.

Let them show what they know in different ways

Not every student wants to write a full paragraph. Some would rather draw, speak, or sort ideas using graphic organisers. When you offer options like these, it helps more students engage fully in their own learning. It also supports students with special needs who benefit from clear visuals and low-pressure tasks.

Notice the small stuff

When a student quietly helps someone or shows care for the classroom, mention it. These moments often go unrecognised, but they say a lot about how students interact with each other. Noticing those details encourages more participation and positive behaviour throughout the day.

As per our expertise, these methods help students feel confident, included, and more willing to learn. They also give you more ways to support everyone in the room.

Student Feedback Isn’t Just for Full-Time Teachers

Even if you’re only covering for a day, asking for student feedback can make a positive impact on you. It shows that you care about their experience and gives you insight into how your approach is landing. These moments of reflection help students recognise their own learning, and they help you teach better each time.

Try these quick, low-pressure options before the end of the day:

• Ask for a thumbs-up or thumbs-down after each activity
• Let students write one sentence: “What I liked most today”
• Place a slip of paper on desks asking, “What’s one thing I’d change?”

These small habits support classroom engagement and build trust. They also give you a chance to adjust your teaching style in ways that help students feel more included and more involved.

You don’t need to overthink the process. Even five minutes at the end of the day can lead to insights that improve your next visit. Plus, students feel more valued when they see that their opinions have an impact.

Experienced agencies like OTJR Online, which have helped thousands of teachers find their ideal roles across London, understand how important it is to gather honest feedback. It’s one of the ways good substitute teachers stand out and grow in their careers.

Taking a moment to ask what worked and what didn’t shows students you’re there to make the day better for them, not just get through it.

How to Turn One Day Into the Next Opportunity

A single day as a substitute teacher can open more doors. If you show up prepared, communicate well, and help students stay on track, people notice. Our thorough assessment revealed that teachers remember the ones who handled things calmly. School administrators remember who left the room clean and the lesson notes detailed. These things matter.

Before you leave, take a moment to organise the desk, return materials, and check in with the front office. A quick thank-you goes a long way. If you enjoyed the experience, speak with other teachers or the deputy head about future needs. Even if you’re working across different grade levels, building these relationships helps create opportunities for more consistent work.

Substitute teachers who stand out don’t just follow lesson plans. They bring positive energy and use practical teaching strategies that fit the moment. That kind of presence makes you a welcome part of the school community.

If you’re looking to turn short-term work into something more, contact OTJR Online to get quick help. With over 20 years of experience helping educators find long-term roles, they understand the value of professionalism and reliability in education.

Relief teaching isn’t just a temporary fix. It can be one of the most rewarding jobs in education. If you’ve only seen it as a stopgap, you might be missing out on the real relief teacher benefits that come with freedom, variety, and less burnout.

Instead of sticking to the same school and the same group of children every week, you’ll be working across different classrooms. That kind of exposure builds your flexibility and gives you the chance to grow without getting stuck in a rut.

At OTJR Online, we work with teachers across the UK who choose casual relief roles for exactly this reason. They’re not waiting for a permanent job to show up. They’ve found something that works.

If you’ve been thinking about a shift in teaching, this might be the change you need. In the next section, we’ll look at the specific benefits that come with this kind of work.

Relief Teacher Benefits That Go Beyond the Obvious

Relief teaching doesn’t just fill gaps in the timetable. It offers teachers a way to build experience, develop new skills, and stay connected to education in a way that fits their lifestyle.

• You control your time: Relief teachers choose when they’re available. That kind of flexibility is hard to find in most teaching jobs, and it means you can work around family, studies, or even other jobs if needed.
• You experience different schools: One week, you might be in a small village school. Next, a large city academy. Working across multiple schools means you learn to adapt quickly, gain new insights, and stay sharp in the classroom.
• Your skills grow fast: Every day brings new children, new classroom setups, and different teaching expectations. That constant change helps you build problem-solving skills and boosts your ability to think on your feet.
• You make valuable connections: By meeting new teachers and school leaders regularly, you grow your network. Many full-time roles are offered to those already known in the system through casual relief work.

These are just a few relief teacher benefits that often go unnoticed. From flexibility to faster skill growth, this job can offer far more than expected. If you’re looking to explore new opportunities in teaching without locking yourself into one place, relief teaching could be the perfect job.

Cultivating Flexible Thinking in Dynamic Classrooms

You walk into a classroom you’ve never seen before. There’s no lesson plan. Half the children are already restless. One asks when their regular teacher is coming back. Plans change unexpectedly, and in this job, that’s normal.

Relief teachers not only survive those moments. They adapt. In fact, this kind of teaching trains your brain in ways most jobs don’t. You learn to think fast, respond calmly, and shift your strategy without losing the room. That’s what flexible thinking looks like in action.

So, what is flexible thinking? It’s the ability to read the room, adjust your approach, and solve problems without missing a beat. More importantly, it’s a skill you build through experience. Every unexpected class, every awkward silence, and every change of plan helps you develop it over time.

According to the UK’s Department for Education, 83% of teachers say flexible working has helped improve their work-life balance. That balance often begins in the classroom, especially in casual relief roles where flexibility is part of the job.

In short, relief teaching gives you daily chances to manage uncertainty, sharpen your instincts, and build flexible thinking skills that will serve you throughout your teaching career. And the more you practise, the more natural it becomes.

Flexible Thinking Skills & Activities to Strengthen Your Approach

Flexible thinking is something you’re born with. It’s a set of skills that anyone can develop through simple habits, classroom reflection, and real-world practice.

Below are some flexible thinking activities that can help you grow in this area and bring more adaptability into your teaching.

Roleplay classroom scenarios

Set up a few minutes with a colleague to act out tricky situations. Maybe a lesson gets interrupted or a student is upset. Practising your responses in these mock sessions helps you adapt more confidently when it happens in real time.

Keep a reflection journal

At the end of each teaching day, jot down a moment when you had to pivot. What went well? What could’ve been handled differently? Over time, this process strengthens your problem-solving skills and creates your teaching playbook.

Try creativity games

Even quick, fun activities like improv games or “what if” thinking exercises can teach your brain to stay flexible. These kinds of games are easy to run and useful for both children and adults. They’re also a great way to spark new ideas in the classroom.

Observe other teachers

Take note of how others manage unexpected changes. Do they slow things down? Ask more questions? Change directions entirely? Learning by watching is one of the most underrated strategies in education, and it works especially well in casual relief jobs.

In the long run, flexible thinking skills make your job smoother, your responses stronger, and your confidence more solid. These strategies aren’t just for today. They’ll support you for years to come.

Casual Relief Work as a Launchpad, Not a Limbo

For a lot of teachers, casual relief work becomes the role that gives them freedom, fresh energy, and a better work-life balance.

This kind of teaching gives you space to grow without locking you into the same routine every day. You get to try different schools, work with new teams, and figure out what suits you best. Some teachers use it to build up their confidence, others find it leads them toward roles they never expected.

At OTJR Online, we’re here to support you every step of the way. From practical advice to daily job listings, we help casual relief teachers stay in control of their path through education.

If you’ve been thinking about trying something different, now’s a good time to find out what’s possible and make your next move with confidence.

Finding a teaching job in London is both exciting and overwhelming. The city offers vast opportunities, from high-performing academies to inclusive state-funded schools, but competition is fierce.

Many educators struggle with navigating the application process, networking effectively, and meeting UK-specific qualifications. Without a strategic approach, finding the right position can take months.

London’s education sector is dynamic, diverse, and constantly changing. Schools are looking for dedicated teachers who bring fresh perspectives and innovative teaching methods.

This guide covers what truly matters, from figuring out the teaching scene to nailing your interviews. If you’re just getting started, changing locations, or looking to grow your career, you’ll find clear, useful tips to help you stand out and make the right call.

Education and Recruitment: Navigating London’s Teaching Landscape and Understanding Your Options

Before diving into applications, it’s important to understand London’s school system. Each school type has different structures, expectations, and opportunities for teachers. Knowing where you fit best will help you tailor your applications.

Attracting the best talent is key to meeting the diverse needs of London’s schools. Strong recruitment in education means finding qualified teachers who care deeply about their work and are genuinely invested in helping students succeed.

Why Teach in London?

London is one of the best places to grow your teaching career. Here’s why:

• High demand – London schools often face teacher shortages, which increases job availability.
• Competitive salaries – Inner London offers some of the highest teacher salaries in the UK.
• Career growth – Many schools provide structured CPD (Continuing Professional Development) for career advancement.
• Cultural diversity – London classrooms are filled with students from various backgrounds, making teaching rewarding and dynamic.

Understanding the Education Recruitment Landscape

The education recruitment landscape is a complex and dynamic field that requires a deep understanding of the education sector, its challenges, and its needs.

Filling an open position efficiently is crucial to maintaining the operational effectiveness of educational institutions.

Education recruitment involves finding and hiring qualified candidates to fill various roles in educational institutions, from teachers and professors to administrators and support staff.

The process involves a strategic approach to recruitment, taking into account the unique requirements of each institution and the needs of its students.

Effective education recruitment requires a thorough understanding of the hiring process, from job description creation to candidate sourcing and selection.

It also involves building relationships with job seekers, understanding their career goals and aspirations, and providing them with opportunities for growth and development.

Overview of the Education Sector

The education sector is a vast and multifaceted industry that plays a crucial role in shaping the future. It encompasses a wide range of institutions, including primary and secondary schools, colleges, and universities, each with its unique set of challenges and opportunities.

Education professionals within this sector are responsible for nurturing and developing the minds of students of all ages, from young children to adults pursuing higher education.

Working in the education sector requires a high level of adaptability and a commitment to continuous professional development.

As new technologies, teaching methodologies, and educational policies emerge, education professionals must stay current to provide the best possible learning experiences. This dynamic environment demands innovative thinking and a proactive approach to professional growth.

Despite the challenges, a career in education is incredibly rewarding. Education professionals have the unique opportunity to make a lasting impact on their students’ lives, contributing to their personal and academic development.

Types of Schools in the Education Sector in London

• State-funded schools – These include community schools, academies, grammar schools, and faith schools.
• Independent (private) schools – Often have smaller class sizes, different curricula, and higher pay.
• Special education schools – Cater to students with additional learning needs and require specialized teaching skills.

Recruiting qualified professionals is essential to meet the specific needs of each type of school.

Types of Teaching Roles

Teaching roles in education are diverse and varied, ranging from early childhood education to higher education and specialized fields such as special education and vocational training. Some common types of teaching roles include:

• Classroom teachers: Responsible for teaching and instructing students in a specific subject or grade level.
• Subject specialists: Experts in a particular subject area, such as mathematics or science.
• Special education teachers: Work with students with special needs, developing individualized education plans and providing support and accommodations.
• Vocational trainers: Teach students practical skills and trades, such as culinary arts or automotive repair.
• Online educators: Teach students remotely, using digital platforms and tools to deliver instruction and support.

Each type of teaching role requires a unique set of skills, qualifications, and experience. Education recruiters must understand the specific requirements of each role and be able to attract and select candidates who possess the necessary qualifications and qualities.

Key Qualifications & Requirements

To teach in London, you must meet specific criteria:

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) – Required for most state schools.
• Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) – The most common route to obtain QTS.
• Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check – Mandatory for safeguarding children.
• For international teachers – Additional qualification assessments may be required to meet UK standards.

It is important to recruit educators who meet these key qualifications and requirements to ensure the highest standards of teaching and safety in schools.

The Application Process: How to Make Your Profile Stand Out as a Qualified Candidate

The hiring process is competitive, so your application must be well-crafted to capture a school’s attention. Recruiting not just qualified candidates but those passionate about impacting students’ lives is crucial for success in the education sector.

Here’s how:

Step 1: Crafting a Winning CV & Cover Letter

• Tailor each application – Schools appreciate candidates who personalize their applications.
• Highlight measurable achievements – Instead of “improved student engagement,” say “increased student engagement by 20% through interactive learning.”

Step 2: Writing a Compelling Personal Statement

• Showcase your teaching philosophy – Explain how you inspire student learning.
• Use a structured format:

1. Introduction: Your motivation for teaching.
2. Middle: Key skills, experience, and examples of impact.
3. Conclusion: Your career goals and how they align with the school’s ethos.

• Weak vs. Strong Statement:

1. Weak: “I enjoy working with children and want to make a difference.”
2. Strong: “My commitment to inclusive education led me to develop differentiated lesson plans that improved learning outcomes for mixed-ability students.”

Mastering the Job Search: Where and How to Apply

Finding the right job requires looking beyond standard job listings.

Top Job Boards & Recruitment Agencies

• TES, Guardian Jobs, eTeach – Well-known platforms for teaching vacancies.
• Specialist agencies – OTJR Online, Engage Education, and Hays Education offer personalized support and job matching.

Using School Websites & Direct Applications

• Monitor school career pages – Many schools post vacancies before advertising elsewhere.
• Cold applications – Email schools even if no job is advertised; some roles aren’t listed publicly.

Networking Strategies: Tapping into the Hidden Job Market

Many teaching positions are filled through referrals before they ever reach job boards. Effective networking can fast-track your job search.

Building a Professional Network

• Use LinkedIn – Connect with headteachers, recruiters, and fellow educators.
• Join Facebook teacher groups – Many teaching communities share job leads.
• Attend CPD events – A great way to meet school leaders and hiring managers.

Attending Job Fairs & Education Events

• Why attend? – Direct interactions with schools can help you land an interview faster.
• Prepare an elevator pitch – A 30-second introduction summarising your experience and skills.

Getting Referrals & Recommendations

• Ask previous mentors or colleagues – Strong references can set you apart.
• Follow up with connections – Regular engagement can open unexpected opportunities.

Preparing for Interviews: Key Questions & How to Ace Them

Once shortlisted, the next challenge is the interview. Schools assess both your knowledge and your approach to real classroom scenarios.

Common Interview Questions & How to Answer

• “Tell me about a time you handled a difficult student.”
  • Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answer.
• “How do you differentiate instruction for diverse learners?”
  • Discuss strategies like scaffolding, differentiated instruction, and adaptive learning tools.
• Safeguarding questions – Expect to answer how you’d handle a suspected safeguarding issue.

Demonstrating Your Teaching Skills

• Be ready for a mock lesson – Plan a clear, engaging session that shows your strengths.
• Classroom management strategies – Schools want to see how you maintain discipline and engagement.

Support for International Teachers

Relocating to London? Here’s what you need to know:

Visa & Work Permits

• Skilled Worker Visa – Most common for non-UK teachers.
• Youth Mobility Scheme – For young professionals looking to gain teaching experience.

Adjusting to UK Schools

• Understand classroom expectations – UK schools value student-led learning.
• Adapt to behavior management policies – Each school has structured disciplinary measures.

Finding Housing & Settling In

• Affordable areas – Zones 2-4 offer reasonable rents with good transport links.
• Transport – An Oyster card is essential for daily commutes.

Career Development for Education Professionals

Career development is essential for education professionals, enabling them to enhance their skills, knowledge, and practice, and to advance in their careers.

Educational institutions can support career development by providing opportunities for professional growth and advancement, such as:

• Mentorship programs: Pairing experienced educators with new or aspiring teachers.
• Professional development workshops and training: Providing educators with the latest research, technologies, and best practices.
• Leadership development programs: Preparing educators for leadership roles, such as department chairs or school administrators.
• Coaching and feedback: Providing educators with regular feedback and coaching to improve their practice.

Opportunities for Growth and Advancement

Education professionals have numerous opportunities for growth and advancement, both within and outside of the classroom. Some examples include:

• Leadership roles: Department chairs, school administrators, or district-level leadership positions.
• Specialized roles: Curriculum development, instructional coaching, or educational technology.
• Higher education: Pursuing advanced degrees or certifications, such as a master’s or doctoral degree.
• Education policy and advocacy: Working with government agencies, non-profits, or private organizations to shape education policy and advocate for education reform.

Education recruiters can help education professionals explore these opportunities and provide guidance and support as they navigate their careers.

Continuing Education and Professional Development

Continuing education and professional development are essential for education professionals, enabling them to stay current with the latest research, technologies, and best practices. Educational institutions can support continuing education and professional development by providing:

• Professional development workshops and training.
• Online courses and degree programs.
• Conferences and seminars.
• Coaching and mentoring programs.

Education Recruitment Technology

Technology plays a major role in how schools and institutions find the right educators. With the growing demand for efficiency, digital tools have become essential for making the recruitment process smoother and more effective.

One example is Interviewstream, a video interviewing platform that helps schools connect with candidates remotely. It reduces the need for in-person interviews, saving time and resources while still allowing hiring teams to understand each applicant clearly. This flexibility also expands your reach, helping you connect with a broader pool of candidates.

Applicant tracking systems (ATS) and recruitment software also support hiring teams throughout the process. These tools take care of tasks like posting job ads, sorting applications, and tracking candidates. They also offer valuable data that highlights what’s working and where adjustments might help.

Used well, recruitment technology doesn’t just save time. It helps schools find teachers who are not only qualified but also aligned with the school’s values and long-term goals.

Your Next Steps: Take Action Now

Finding a teaching job in London is a journey that requires preparation, networking, and confidence. Now that you have the right strategies, take the next step—apply for jobs, attend events, and build your connections. The perfect teaching opportunity is waiting for you.

Our “Final Tips & Motivation” includes:

• Stay persistent – Job hunting takes time, so don’t get discouraged.
• Continue learning – CPD courses boost your employability.
• Use all available resources – Join online teaching forums and attend networking events.

For exclusive job openings and career resources, explore OTJROnline today!