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Frequently Asked
Questions

At Heart of Supply, we know starting or returning to supply work can raise
lots of questions, from how registration works to what you can expect in schools.
To make things simple, we’ve put together answers to the questions we’re
most often asked by teachers, teaching assistants and support staff.

Whether you’re exploring day-to-day supply, considering a long-term
placement or just curious about how we work, you’ll find everything you
need to know right here.

And if your question isn’t covered, we’re only ever a call or message away,
we’re always happy to help.

Frequently Asked
Questions

At Heart of Supply, we know starting or returning to supply work can raise lots of
questions, from how registration works to what you can expect in schools.
To make things simple, we’ve put together answers to the questions we’re
most often asked by teachers, teaching assistants and support staff.

Whether you’re exploring day-to-day
supply, considering a long-term placement or just curious about
how we work, you’ll find everything you
need to know right here.

And if your question isn’t covered,
we’re only ever a call or message away, we’re always happy to help.

Getting Started

a

Do I need a DBS certificate?

If you don’t have one, we’ll support you to apply for an Enhanced DBS and register with the Update Service.

a

Do I need experience to register?

Yes, all candidates must have recent, referenceable experience working with children or young people. This ensures we meet our compliance standards and place confident, capable staff in schools.

a

How easy is it to register?

Very easy! After an initial chat to understand what you’re looking for, we’ll:

1. Book a registration meeting (online or in person)

2. Ask you to complete online registration forms and upload documents securely

3. Complete all compliance checks together Most candidates are cleared and ready to work within a week.

a

Why should I choose Heart of Supply?

Because we genuinely care. Heart of Supply is built on relationships, honesty and a love for education. We take time to get to know you, support you and match you with schools where you’ll thrive, with a service that’s personal, local and people focused.

Pay & Benefits

a

Do you offer a referral bonus?

Yes, refer a teacher or teaching assistant who registers successfully and receive £50 as a thank you. No faff, no waiting for them to work a set number of days.

a

Do you offer CPD or training?

Yes! All candidates receive free Level 3 Safeguarding training and regular CPD updates like Prevent and FGM.

a

Do you pay through an umbrella company?

No, we pay all our staff directly through PAYE, weekly (subject to deductions).

a

Will I get ongoing support once I start working?

Absolutely. You’ll have a dedicated consultant for regular check-ins, feedback from schools and support whenever you need it.

Work & Availability

a

Can I complete my ECT induction on supply?

Yes, in a long-term role that lasts at least one full term and is approved for induction. Many ECTs start with short-term supply to build confidence before securing induction placements.

a

Can you guarantee work?

We can’t guarantee it, but we work with a wide network of trusted schools. The more flexible you are with year groups, travel and availability, the more opportunities we can offer.

a

Do I have to be available at 7am every day?

No. Early-morning calls are common for day-to-day supply, but we work around your availability. You can update us any time your availability changes.

a

How will you know when I’m available?

We’ll check your availability at registration, give you access to an online calendar, and you can always text or call if your availability changes.

a

I don’t drive, will that limit me?

Not necessarily. Many of our candidates don’t drive. We’ll focus on schools within walking distance or accessible by public transport.

a

I only want to teach specific year groups, is that possible?

Yes! We’ll only offer you roles where you feel confident and experienced, whether that’s EYFS, KS2, Secondary or SEND.

a

Is there a minimum number of days I must work?

No. We offer full-time, part-time and occasional work around your commitments.

a

What kind of roles do you offer?

We support schools with:

· Day-to-day and short-term supply

· Long-term placements

· Roles in Nurseries, Primary, Secondary, and SEND settings

· Teachers, Teaching Assistants and Learning Support Assistants