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.
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.
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:
Introduction: Your motivation for teaching.
Middle: Key skills, experience, and examples of impact.
Conclusion: Your career goals and how they align with the school’s ethos.
Weak vs. Strong Statement:
Weak: “I enjoy working with children and want to make a difference.”
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!
In an ideal classroom set-up, students must focus on the subject, participate in the discussion, take notes, and respect their instructor and classmates. However, we cannot expect students to behave this way all the time. While there will be excellent students, there would always be the disruptive ones.
Here are fascinating pointers on how to keep class disruptions to a minimum.
Plan It Well
Make sure you prepare your lessons well and strategize how you would keep your students engaged in the lesson. Avoid delays and looking inexperienced. You won’t like to attract unwanted noise and discussion by not preparing well enough.
Be spontaneous and never give a hint of boredom or dull moments. Coax the class to participate in a seamless, interactive discussion.
Un-Ignore
You have to be careful not to ignore disruptive students aside. You would not want to make an impression that you are selective and biased with your class. At the same time, ignoring these disruptive students may just lead them to disturb the discussions more.
These type of learners would often excuse their behaviors for either disliking their teacher or that they feel ‘disliked’ by their professors.
Don’t Stoop Down
While making sure your students respect you at all times may be difficult, it would have to start from you. You don’t have to impose it on them. Rather, you have to develop your personality and character to be well-respected. Also, remember the cliche, “Respect begets respect.”
Act like a teacher because you are one. Do not stoop down to the level of your disruptive students. Be authoritative and assertive, rather than aggressive.
Here are three tips that teachers should follow in class. Bonus tip: At the end of the day, it all bills down to this – Make your students respect you, their classmates, and themselves.
The competition in the education market adds up to the seeming difficulty of landing a job as a supply teacher. Unless you have contacts who would get your services in case of temporary vacancies, you shouldn’t be taking things lightly.
Here are some qualities you should have to prepare yourself for the job role.
1. Flexibility
You must be flexible enough to teach different age groups or subjects for the matter. With a little imagination, research, and passion, you should be able to handle things and students well. Make an impression that you can manage any class and you should. The role of a supply teacher is subject to variety. You should be able to adapt to changes in culture, demographics, topics, etc.
This quality will come very handy when finding a stint gets tougher than usual.
2. Attendance
Planning your schedules right is the key to success, but also are your persistence and communications with one or a few recruitment agencies. You should make sure you do not miss any bookings if any, and call your placement firm early morning to check if you could have one. Be early, if not on time, for your class and do not accept bookings you cannot attend. Remember, you should be reliable.
3. Efficiency
You always have to be your best or outdo yourself when teaching. This way, the school administration will recognize you as a qualified supply teacher with dedication, passion, and expertise. Make sure you work hard and smart enough for school principals or supervisors to remember your effort and skills. Impress them to increase the likelihood of being hired again in the future, either for another temporary vacancy or a full-time post.
These are just three things to make you a suitable supply teacher.
