Starting your first day in a new school can feel a little daunting, even if you’ve worked in education for years. New faces, unfamiliar routines and a different environment can all take some getting used to.

Whether you’re an experienced teacher trying supply for the first time, an Early Career Teacher (ECT) or a teaching assistant exploring new opportunities, a little preparation can make all the difference.

At Heart of Supply, we work with schools and educators across Lincolnshire, North Lincolnshire, North East Lincolnshire and the Newark area of Nottinghamshire. We know that every school is different, but there are a few things you can do to help your first day run smoothly.

Here are our practical tips for arriving prepared, feeling confident and making a positive first impression.

1. Get organised the night before

A little preparation the evening before can make your morning much easier, particularly if you’re travelling to a school for the first time.

Before heading to bed, make sure you’ve:

• Checked the school name, address and where you need to report on arrival.
• Confirmed your start time and planned your journey, allowing extra time for traffic and parking.
• Checked the role, year group or department you’ll be supporting, where this information is available.
• Packed anything you might need, including a notebook, pen, lunch and water.
• Made sure your phone is charged and your alarm is set.

Our tip: Have a quick look at the school’s website. Getting a feel for its values, policies and general approach can help you arrive feeling more familiar with the setting.

2. Bring your DBS certificate and photo ID

Schools have important safeguarding responsibilities, and you may be asked to present identification when you arrive.

We recommend taking your original DBS certificate and photographic ID with you to every assignment, even if you’ve worked at the school before.

Your agency should have completed the relevant safer recruitment checks and provided the school with the necessary safeguarding information before your placement.

Having your documents readily available can help avoid unnecessary delays when signing in.

3. Dress appropriately for the school environment

First impressions matter, and dressing professionally helps you feel prepared for the day ahead.

You don’t necessarily need formal business wear, but your clothing should be smart, comfortable and practical for the role you’re undertaking.

Remember that working in a primary classroom, supporting pupils with additional needs or assisting with PE may involve very different activities.

If you’re unsure about a school’s dress code, ask your consultant before your assignment.

4. Arrive early and introduce yourself

Aim to arrive a little before your agreed start time, giving yourself time to sign in, meet the relevant staff and get familiar with your surroundings.

When you arrive, introduce yourself at reception and explain that you’re attending as supply staff from Heart of Supply.

Before the school day begins, try to establish:

• Who you’ll be working with and who your main point of contact is.
• Where you’ll be based and what your responsibilities are.
• The school’s daily timetable and key routines.
• Arrangements for breaks, lunch and the end of the day.
• Where to find any resources or information you’ll need.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Schools would much rather you clarify something than spend the day feeling unsure.

5. Make safeguarding your first priority

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility, regardless of whether you’re working at a school for one day or an entire academic year.

Before beginning your assignment, make sure you know:

• Who the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) is and how to contact them.
• How to report a safeguarding concern, including the school’s reporting procedures.
• What to do if a child makes a disclosure.
• The school’s child protection and safeguarding policies.
• The relevant procedures for emergencies, first aid and pupil welfare.

You should also familiarise yourself with the school’s behaviour policy and any relevant information about the pupils you’ll be working with.

Remember: Never assume that safeguarding procedures are identical between schools. Always follow the policies and reporting arrangements of the setting you’re working in.

If you have an immediate concern about a child’s safety, follow the school’s safeguarding procedures without delay.

6. Understand what’s expected of you

Every supply assignment is different.

Some teachers will arrive to find detailed lesson plans and resources prepared, while others may need to adapt quickly. Teaching assistants and support staff may be supporting an individual pupil, working with small groups or assisting across a classroom.

Before the day begins, try to clarify your responsibilities.

If you’re teaching, check the lesson plans, classroom routines, marking expectations and any information about additional learning needs.

If you’re working in a support role, establish which pupils or groups you’ll be supporting, the activities planned and how the class teacher would like you to work alongside them.

The more you understand about your role, the easier it will be to settle in and support the school effectively.

7. Be adaptable, but don’t be afraid to ask

One of the most valuable qualities in supply work is adaptability.

You might find yourself working with a different year group, following unfamiliar routines or adjusting to last-minute changes.

Being flexible and willing to get involved can make a real difference.

But being adaptable doesn’t mean you should be expected to know everything.

If you’re unsure about a procedure, a pupil’s needs or what’s expected of you, ask a member of staff.

Good communication helps everyone, including you, the school and the pupils you’re supporting.

8. Leave a positive impression

At the end of your assignment, a few small things can make a lasting difference.

If you’ve been teaching, leave a clear handover explaining what was covered, any work that remains unfinished and anything the returning teacher may need to know.

Make sure any safeguarding or welfare concerns have been reported through the school’s procedures, rather than relying on a general handover.

Return resources, leave your working area tidy and check whether there’s anything else the school needs before you leave.

A simple thank you to the staff who’ve supported you throughout the day is always appreciated.

9. Keep in touch with your consultant

Your relationship with your recruitment consultant shouldn’t end once you’ve arrived at school.

After your assignment, let us know how you got on.

Did you enjoy the school? Was the role what you expected? Would you be happy to return?

Your feedback helps us understand your preferences and identify future opportunities that may be a good match.

Equally, if something didn’t go as expected or you need advice, we’re here to listen and support you.

Your first day is just the beginning

Supply work offers the opportunity to experience different schools, develop your skills, meet new colleagues and discover the environments you most enjoy working in.

It’s perfectly normal to feel a few nerves before your first assignment. With good preparation, a willingness to ask questions and the right support, you’ll soon find your feet.

At Heart of Supply, we take the time to understand our educators and the schools they work in, helping make each placement as straightforward as possible.

Ready to explore supply teaching or education support roles?

View our roles or register your details to find out how we can help you take your next step.