Whether your placement lasted one day, one week, one term or an entire academic year, the end of a supply placement is an opportunity to reflect on what you've achieved and prepare for your next role.

Unlike permanent school staff, supply professionals often move between different schools, classrooms and contracts throughout the academic year. Every placement helps you build experience, develop new skills and strengthen your CV.

Whether you're a Supply Teacher, SEND Teaching Assistant, Learning Support Assistant (LSA), Behaviour Mentor, Cover Supervisor or SEND Support Worker, taking a few simple steps before your placement ends can help you stay organised, remain compliant and improve your chances of securing your next opportunity.

As one of the UK's leading SEND teaching agencies, Axcis supports education professionals throughout their careers. Here's our practical guide to making the most of every supply placement.

1. Finish your placement professionally

First impressions matter, but so do last impressions.

Before leaving your placement, make sure you've:

• Returned your staff ID badge, keys or access fob.
• Returned any laptops, tablets or classroom equipment you've borrowed.
• Left classrooms and resources organised.
• Thanked the staff you've worked alongside.

Professionalism and reliability are qualities schools remember, and a positive reputation can often lead to repeat bookings.

2. Complete your timesheets

Before your placement finishes, make sure all your timesheets have been submitted correctly.

Check that:

• Your working hours are accurate.
• Any queries are resolved while the school is still open.
• Your contact details and bank details are up to date.

Completing everything before you leave helps avoid unnecessary payment delays.

3. Leave a helpful handover, where appropriate

If you've been working in a longer-term role, leaving a brief handover can make a real difference.

You might include:

• Successful classroom routines
• Behaviour management strategies
• Communication approaches
• Resources you've been using
• Any agreed support strategies for pupils

Supporting a smooth transition demonstrates professionalism and helps maintain continuity for pupils.

4. Update your CV while everything is fresh

Take a few minutes to update your CV before you forget the details.

Include:

• New SEND experience
• Classroom responsibilities
• Behaviour management experience
• Training completed
• Specialist interventions
• Achievements and successes

An up-to-date CV helps your consultant present your skills to schools more effectively.

If you're unsure what schools really look for, read our guide: What Schools Actually Notice on SEND CVs.

5. Let your consultant know you're available

Schools recruit throughout the academic year, and many vacancies are planned before they're advertised.

As soon as you know your availability, let your consultant know.

Whether you're looking for:

• Daily supply work
• Short-term placements
• Long-term contracts
• Permanent opportunities
• Full-time or part-time work

Keeping your consultant informed means they can begin matching you with suitable roles as soon as they become available.

Already working through Axcis? Make the Axcis App your best friend.

If you're currently registered with Axcis, the Axcis App is one of the quickest and easiest ways to manage your supply work.

Using the app, you can:

• Update your availability calendar.
• View and manage upcoming bookings.
• Upload your timesheets.
• Search and apply for SEND jobs.
• Upload important documents.
• Stay connected with your Axcis consultant.

Keeping your availability calendar up to date is one of the simplest ways to improve your chances of being matched with suitable supply work, particularly during busy recruitment periods. Schools often need staff at short notice, so having your latest availability recorded means your consultant can contact you quickly when opportunities arise.

New to the Axcis App? Read our guide to discover how it can help make managing your supply career even easier: Reasons to Use the Axcis App.

6. Check your compliance documents

Being ready to start work quickly often depends on having your compliance documents up to date.

Take a few moments to check:

• DBS documentation
• Right to Work documents
• Proof of address
• Mandatory training
• Safeguarding certificates
• References, where required

Keeping everything current helps avoid unnecessary delays when your next opportunity arises.

7. Continue developing your skills through CPD

School breaks and quieter periods can be a great opportunity to invest in your professional development.

As an Axcis candidate, you can access free CPD through the Axcis Academy, delivered in partnership with the London Academy, helping you build confidence and develop new skills for future roles.

You may also wish to expand your knowledge in areas such as:

• Autism
• ADHD
• SEMH
• Behaviour management
• Communication strategies
• Inclusive classroom practice
• Safeguarding

Every new skill strengthens your CV and supports your career progression.

8. Take time to recharge

Working in education is incredibly rewarding, but it can also be physically and emotionally demanding.

Whether you're between placements for a few days or enjoying a longer school break, remember to look after your own wellbeing.

Take time to rest, enjoy your hobbies, spend time with family and friends, and recharge before your next role.

If you're looking for practical wellbeing advice, read our article Looking After Your Wellbeing While Working in Education.

9. Stay connected with your teaching agency

Many schools begin planning staffing requirements before the next term starts.

Keeping in regular contact with your consultant means you'll be among the first to hear about suitable opportunities that match your skills, experience and availability.

At Axcis, we work with schools across England and South Wales to place Supply Teachers, SEND Teaching Assistants and Education Support Staff into rewarding roles throughout the academic year.

Whether you've completed a single day's work or supported the same school for an entire academic year, every placement adds to your experience and helps build your career.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I tell my teaching agency I'm available for work?

As soon as you know your availability. Schools often begin planning staffing requirements before a new term starts, so keeping your consultant informed gives you the best chance of hearing about suitable opportunities early.

Should I update my CV after every placement?

Yes. Every placement adds valuable experience, new skills and achievements. Keeping your CV up to date helps your consultant present you to schools more effectively.

What if I only worked for one day?

Every placement counts. Even short-term assignments demonstrate your adaptability, professionalism and willingness to work in different school environments.

Can supply work lead to permanent opportunities?

Absolutely. Many schools use supply placements to identify candidates for longer-term or permanent positions, making every placement an opportunity to showcase your skills.

Continue Your Career Journey

Looking for more advice? These resources can help you prepare for your next opportunity:

• What Schools Actually Notice on SEND CVs – Learn how to make your CV stand out.
• Ace Your SEND Education Job Interview – Build confidence and prepare for interviews.
• How to Prepare for Your First Day in a SEND Setting – Practical tips for starting a new placement.
• Looking After Your Wellbeing While Working in Education – Prioritise your wellbeing while supporting others.
• CPD, Training and Career Development – Explore free professional development through the Axcis Academy.
• Refer a Friend – Recommend someone who would make a great addition to the Axcis community and find out how our referral scheme works.
• Candidate of the Term Awards – See how we celebrate the dedication and achievements of our candidates.

Ready for your next opportunity?

Whether you've completed a one-day booking, a long-term placement or an entire academic year in the same school, every placement helps you build your experience and confidence as an education professional.

If you're already working with Axcis, keep your profile up to date, stay in touch with your consultant and let us know when you're ready for your next placement. The more we know about your availability, preferred locations and career goals, the better we can match you with suitable opportunities.

New to Axcis?

If you're looking for your next role in education, we'd love to hear from you.

As one of the UK's leading SEND teaching agencies, Axcis works with schools across England and South Wales to place:

• SEND Teachers
• SEND Teaching Assistants
• Learning Support Assistants (LSAs)
• Behaviour Mentors
• Cover Supervisors
• SEND Support Workers
• Other education support professionals

We cover flexible supply roles, long-term roles and permanent roles.

Complete our enquiry form to register your interest, and one of our specialist consultants will be in touch.

Register with Axcis

Finally, thank you to all the education professionals who make a difference in schools every day. We look forward to supporting you throughout your education career.