Blog

Are you a supply teacher or teaching assistant looking for some help and advice? If so, you are in the right place. Our blogs offer tips and tricks on everything from classroom management to interview tips and support, along with day in the life case studies from real supply teachers, ECTs and cover supervisors. They also give you an insight into what working for Smile is like, the ways which we support local communities and charities and the training and events that we offer. 

For more good stuff like this, follow us on social media - you can find us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn. Or pick up the phone and give us a call.

Tips and Tricks - 29-11-2024 - - 0 comments
School Administrator Jobs: Everything You Need to Know in 2024

When thinking about the people who keep a school running smoothly, teachers, headteachers and classroom staff often come to mind. However, there’s someone else behind the scenes who keeps a school afloat: school administrators.

Tips and Tricks - 08-11-2024 - - 0 comments
How to Become a SEN Teaching Assistant

It goes without saying that Special Education Needs (SEN) Teaching Assistants (TA) play an incredibly valuable role in the education of children and young people in the UK.

SEN Teaching Assistants work to support students with a wide range of additional needs in order for them to access education.

If you’re interested in becoming a SEN Teaching Assistant, we’ve written out the basics of what you’ll need to get started.

Tips and Tricks - 30-08-2024 - - 0 comments
ECT Jobs: Everything You Need to Know in 2024

Have you recently graduated with QTS? If you’re looking for your first teaching job after qualifying, it doesn’t have to be as scary as it sounds.

Tips and Tricks - 23-08-2024 - - 0 comments
September Survival Guide: Top Tips for Teachers and School Support Staff

The summer holidays are drawing to a close once again. With the new school year looming on the horizon, we know that anticipating the start of September can be a time of worry as well as excitement.

Tips and Tricks - 02-08-2024 - - 0 comments
How to Become a Teacher

It goes without saying that teaching is one of the most rewarding careers out there. If you’re passionate about helping children and young people achieve their goals, this might be the role for you. 

Tips and Tricks - 15-05-2024 - - 0 comments
Moving More for Your Mental Health

This week is Mental Health Awareness Week! 2024’s theme of the year is “Move More for Your Mental Health”, and we’ve asked the Smile team about what this means to them.

Tips and Tricks - 18-04-2024 - - 0 comments
Cover Supervisor Jobs: What to Expect

You might never have considered becoming a Cover Supervisor, but if you don’t yet have QTS and are looking to build your experience in the classroom or shift your working pattern to a more flexible, day-to-day schedule, this role might be the right choice for you.

Tips and Tricks - 22-03-2024 - - 0 comments
Neurodiversity Celebration Week: Could Your School Be More Inclusive for Neurodiverse Pupils?

Did you know that approximately 15-20% of the population has a neurological difference? This week is Neurodiversity Celebration Week, and there’s no better opportunity for schools to explore how they could extend this inclusion to their neurodiverse pupils.

Tips and Tricks - 14-03-2024 - - 0 comments
Competency-based Interview Questions: Our Top Tips

Congratulations on getting an interview! You’ve researched the most common interview questions, but are you prepared for some of the more specific competency-based interview questions you might receive?

Tips and Tricks - 16-02-2024 - - 0 comments
How to Ace Your Next Teacher Interview

First of all, congratulations on landing an interview! You've tackled the first hurdle, but the biggest challenge is just over the horizon. If you're an ECT looking for your first teaching job, you might be more nervous than excited right now. Don't just wing it - go in as prepared as you can be with our top interview tips for teachers.

Tips and Tricks - 20-12-2023 - - 0 comments
Christmas Break: Tips on Looking After Your Mental Health This Winter

The festive season is upon us. While cinemas and Netflix screens are filled with uplifting movies, TV adverts are depicting joyful family gatherings and social media features endless snapshots of people who seem to be having a brilliant time, all too often it’s one of the hardest periods of the year for many. 

Tips and Tricks - 20-09-2023 - - 0 comments
Cover Supervisor Jobs: Our Most Frequently Asked Questions

Are you thinking of entering into the world of teaching and want to develop your classroom experience? Working as a Cover Supervisor might be an excellent place for you to start, especially if you’ve just recently graduated.

Tips and Tricks - 31-08-2023 - - 0 comments
Back to School: 7 Tips for Teachers This September

Whether you’ve been teaching for decades or if it’s your first leap into the real world of education, it’s understandable to find returning to work quite daunting. To help you feel a little better, we’ve drummed up a few reminders to reassure you in time for your return.

Tips and Tricks - 30-06-2023 - - 0 comments
4 Reasons Why Art is Important for Children’s Learning

 

When it comes to education and learning, it can be easy to forget about art and creativity in favour of other subjects. However, creativity has been shown time and time again by research to be intrinsically linked with the motivation to learn. As a result, the creative nature of art is an essential part of children’s learning.

 

Tips and Tricks - 13-06-2023 - - 0 comments
How to Become a Teaching Assistant

 

With progression opportunities, flexible hours and the chance to change a student’s life, becoming a teaching assistant means choosing a role where no two days are the same.

 

Tips and Tricks - 01-06-2023 - - 0 comments
Our 8 Top Tips for ECTs

Are you starting your first teaching job this September? Tackling your first few months as a teacher might sound daunting, but that doesn’t mean you have to go through it alone. Remember, there are so many people in the same boat as you, and everyone starts somewhere!

Tips and Tricks - 10-02-2023 - - 0 comments
Frequently asked questions about DBS

Got questions about the DBS? We've done our best to answer all your questions about the Disclosure and Barring Service. 

Tips and Tricks - 03-02-2023 - - 0 comments
Supply vs. Permanent Teaching - What Are The Benefits?

There’s no one-size-fits all when it comes to teaching roles. Depending on your experience, flexibility or career goals, there are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to finding out what's best for you. Here, we've outlined some of the differences between both supply teaching and opting for a permanent position.

Tips and Tricks - 03-02-2023 - - 0 comments
5 Reasons to Love Teaching

As with any job, being a teacher certainly comes with its challenges. For the most part, the good parts outweigh the bad. With Valentine’s coming up, love is in the air and so there’s no better time than the present to focus on the positives of being a teacher; all the reasons why you love doing what you do. 

Tips and Tricks - 02-02-2023 - - 0 comments
How to keep your students safe on the internet

 

Even though the internet creates better opportunities for research and communication it can be dangerous so, with today being Safer Internet Day we wanted to share a few ways you can help keep your students safe when they use the internet.

Tips and Tricks - 14-12-2022 - - 0 comments
Positive people to follow on social media

Some positive people to follow on social media to help raise your spirits. 

Tips and Tricks - 13-12-2022 - - 0 comments
Talking about mental health

Talking about mental health, isn’t always easy but having an open dialogue about mental health can really help and ensure that people find the help that they need. 

Tips and Tricks - 08-12-2022 - - 0 comments
Unwind over the Christmas break - 5 tips for switching off

Our mental health champion, Louise, gives her some advice on how to switch off and unwind during the Christmas break (or any break for that matter!).

Tips and Tricks - 07-12-2022 - - 0 comments
Christmas Luxuries for Teachers

Even though teaching can be extremely rewarding school staff still love their time off for many reasons, so we asked our school staff what their top reason for looking forward to the holidays were and put together a list of what luxuries teachers get to enjoy over the holidays…

Tips and Tricks - 07-12-2022 - - 0 comments
Making Christmas Inclusive for All

With Christmas being such an exciting time of year it’s easy to get swept up in the celebrations and everything Christmas, but not everyone in your class will be able to do the same. 


For those with different religious beliefs, who don’t celebrate Christmas or might find this time of year emotionally difficult, it can feel a bit isolating so we wanted to share a few ways you can help everyone in your class feel included.

Tips and Tricks - 30-11-2022 - - 0 comments
Mental health helplines

Mental health is just as important as physical health. Don’t suffer in silence. Here are some helplines below which offer support and advice on a variety of different topics to support you.

Tips and Tricks - 30-11-2022 - - 0 comments
What teachers would like to ask Santa for

Christmas is just around the corner and both students and teachers are beginning to write their Christmas lists so we wanted to share what is on the top of our teachers' Christmas lists.

Tips and Tricks - 26-10-2022 - - 0 comments
Teaching Kindness in the Classroom

Anti-bullying Week will take place from the 14th to the 18th of November and we wanted to do our bit to support our teachers and teaching assistants. We strongly believe that every child deserves to feel valued and comfortable in their classroom and one of the best ways to do this is to create a culture of kindness amongst your students. We’ve collated our tips from our school staff and shared them below. 

Tips and Tricks - 26-10-2022 - - 0 comments
Tips on how to Prevent and Tackle Bullying

Everyone working in education is all too familiar with the problem of bullying within schools, from the 14th to the 18th of November it’s National Anti-Bullying Week, coordinated by the Anti-Bullying Alliance, so we wanted to share some tips on how to tackle bullying in your school.

Tips and Tricks - 26-10-2022 - - 0 comments
Free CPD Training with the Anti-Bullying Alliance

In this blog, we wanted to honour National Anti-bullying Week by sharing the free CPD online anti-bullying training offered by the Anti-Bullying Alliance (ABA).

Tips and Tricks - 30-09-2022 - - 0 comments
How to celebrate Black History Month in your classroom

 

Black History Month is coming up and it’s the perfect time to acknowledge and celebrate the black people in your community’s culture, history and achievements with your class.

Tips and Tricks - 30-09-2022 - - 0 comments
Should schools ban Halloween?

For many of us in the Smile office, some of our favourite memories at school are fun-filled days with parties, dress up and celebrations so, of course, we were a little surprised about the recent decisions some schools have made to ban Halloween.


With such a difficult decision we thought we would share some of the reasons we found for and against banning Halloween so you can decide for yourself!

Tips and Tricks - 30-09-2022 - - 0 comments
How to keep learning alive this Halloween

Seeing your students get excited about the upcoming celebrations is one of the best parts of teaching but it can be distracting when it comes to your little ones learning. We asked a few of our teachers and they have suggested a few ways you can keep learning alive during Halloween.

 

Tips and Tricks - 02-09-2022 - - 0 comments
Why your students should learn a language.

Speaking more than one language opens up a world of possibilities, from being able to communicate with a variety of different people from different cultures and countries to having an advantage when it comes to future career prospects, we believe every student should learn a language, here are a few more reasons why…

Tips and Tricks - 30-08-2022 - - 0 comments
Resignation Dates - what you need to know

As we head into a new academic year, we felt it was important to reminder all of our school staff about the upcoming resignation dates and offer some advice on what to do and how to go about it.

Tips and Tricks - 17-08-2022 - - 0 comments
What you need to do to pass your ECT years

As a lot of ECTs tend to choose short-term supply work to complete their ECT years with us, we know what schools are looking for and what you need to do to pass you ECT years.


With so much knowledge it would be selfish to keep it to ourselves so we wanted to give you a few pointers on how to pass with flying colours!

Tips and Tricks - 05-07-2022 - - 0 comments
Books with LGBTQ+ themes for your students

We understand that your time is precious and researching age-appropriate, LGBTQ+ inclusive books isn’t going to be on the top of your to-do list. This is why we have asked our school staff for their top recommendations for various school ages.

Tips and Tricks - 05-07-2022 - - 0 comments
What schools are looking for in their ECTs

We work with many ECTs and know how daunting the application and interview process can be so we wanted to make it easier for you with this list of what schools are looking for from our schools themselves.

Tips and Tricks - 01-07-2022 - - 0 comments
Our Pride Party

Our fabulous (and very hardworking) diversity and inclusion team organised our very own Pride party this month as part of our Pride 365 celebrations!

Tips and Tricks - 23-06-2022 - - 0 comments
Our Diversity and Inclusion Training

Diversity and Inclusion is one of our main priorities as an education recruitment agency and that is why we have given our school staff access to free Diversity and Inclusion training through our online training platform.

Tips and Tricks - 17-06-2022 - - 0 comments
Elisha's story - working with diabetes

As it is Diabetes Awareness Week we wanted to share Elisha's experience working in recruitment as someone with Type 1 diabetes.

Tips and Tricks - 10-06-2022 - - 0 comments
We've answered all of our frequently asked questions!

We recently asked our Instagram followers for any questions they may have about supply teaching with Smile. 

After getting a few questions in we thought what better idea than to pop our answers in a blog for you all, this way they’re extra-accessible for those that do have the same questions. 

 

Here are our answers…

Tips and Tricks - 26-05-2022 - - 0 comments
How To Speak About LGBTQ+ Issues With Children.

With all of the Pride flags and celebrations over the next few weeks, your students will be curious about the history and significance of this month. As their teacher, you might be unsure about how to answer all of their questions so we have come up with a few tips on how to do so.

Tips and Tricks - 26-05-2022 - - 0 comments
Handling Stress and Pressure as an ECT

We understand that working as a teacher, although rewarding, can come with stress and pressure, especially when you are just starting out. This is why we have asked a few of our teachers, who have been there and done it, and have come up with a few tips on how to handle stress and pressure as an ECT.

Tips and Tricks - 14-04-2022 - - 0 comments
The Benefits of Short Term Supply as an ECT

There are so many benefits of working in supply as a newly qualified teacher so we asked a few of our ECTs why they chose supply work.

Tips and Tricks - 12-04-2022 - - 0 comments
If Marvel superheroes were teachers...

As an education recruitment agency, we work with real-life superheroes every day. Teaching children isn’t an easy feat but the world depends on it and teachers are here to help. This got us thinking, if Marvel superheroes were teachers what would they teach?

Tips and Tricks - 08-04-2022 - - 0 comments
Understanding and Celebrating Diversity

While working in schools you will meet students from all walks of life. You’ll support students of different ethnicities, religions, abilities and sexualities. As a teacher or teaching assistant you have the responsibility to ensure that students feel heard, safe and accepted and to ensure that students are prepared to collaborate with others regardless of their differences. This is why we have compiled a list of ways you can embrace diversity in your classroom.

Tips and Tricks - 05-04-2022 - - 0 comments
Was Yoda a good teacher?

With May 4th being the official Star Wars day it got us thinking, was Yoda a good teacher?

Tips and Tricks - 31-03-2022 - - 0 comments
How to Accept a Job Offer

Once you have been offered a permanent role in one of our partner schools you might be wondering how you should go about accepting the job offer. As we have 13 years of experience in education recruitment, we know that it is always a good idea to formally accept a job offer so here are a few tips on how to do so.

Tips and Tricks - 23-03-2022 - - 0 comments
Invisible Disabilities in the Classroom

When working in a school environment, knowing and understanding invisible disabilities is key to ensuring your student's success. We hope this blog can help you be as supportive as possible for those in your class with invisible disabilities!

Tips and Tricks - 21-03-2022 - - 0 comments
Inspiring teachers with disabilities

We work with a variety of SEN schools and see how important it is to share positive representations of people from all walks of life this is why we wanted to share some teachers from around the world that have succeeded despite their disabilities and now inspire students and their communities to achieve their own goals.

Tips and Tricks - 21-03-2022 - - 0 comments
Easter activities your students will love

With Easter just around the corner, teachers and teaching assistants may be scrambling to think of some new and exciting Easter crafts for their students, if you’re looking for something new, these activities are no yolk!

Tips and Tricks - 21-03-2022 - - 0 comments
Celebrating Easter in the classroom

Easter is always an exciting time of year regardless of your age (we personally can’t wait for our Easter chocolate this year!). So it’s no wonder you would want to bring some Easter fun into your classroom this April. To help get you started we have asked some of our teachers for their favourite activities to get your class egg-cited for Easter!

Tips and Tricks - 08-03-2022 - - 0 comments
Female educators who worked hard for women's education

Did you know that March is Women’s History Month? The month is dedicated to highlighting the achievements of women throughout history. As we’re an education recruitment agency, we wanted to focus on some of the amazing women who’ve had an instrumental role in ensuring that women across the globe have access to education. 

Tips and Tricks - 08-03-2022 - - 0 comments
Female teachers that changed the world

We couldn’t let Women’s History Month go by without mentioning some of the incredible female teachers who have changed the world. 

 

 

Tips and Tricks - 22-02-2022 - - 0 comments
Key Policies those working in schools should know

If you work with children in a school, nursery or another setting there are a number of policies you’ll need to be aware of, so we have highlighted the key policies you should know.

Tips and Tricks - 22-02-2022 - - 0 comments
Fun Extra-Curriculars for your school

Offering to run an extra-curricular activity, even if only once a week, can really help you stand out in school (for all the right reasons!). Below we’ve shared some ideas of extra-curricular activities that you could run and how they’ll benefit the students.

Tips and Tricks - 22-02-2022 - - 0 comments
Things every teaching assistant needs in their bag

Some teaching assistants will work with one teacher, however, most will spend their day changing between different classrooms and age groups and if you’re on supply you might be visiting different schools too! This is why the contents of your bag are so important if you want your day to be smooth sailing.

Tips and Tricks - 16-02-2022 - - 0 comments
Get inspired for British Science Week

We couldn't let British Science Week go by without mentioning some of Britain's most influential scientists and giving a shout out to our amazing science teachers.

Tips and Tricks - 16-02-2022 - - 0 comments
5 ways to get your kids excited about Shakespeare

English teachers - hold on to your feathered, silk hats - it's Shakespeare Week.

Tips and Tricks - 16-02-2022 - - 0 comments
Life in the classroom after lockdown

While lockdown may seem like a lifetime ago many children, parents and teachers are still feeling the impact of school closures. Children are behind and as a result teachers and parents are feeling stressed. However, with children now back in school full-time and returning to their normal routines there is light at the end of the tunnel.

Tips and Tricks - 16-02-2022 - - 0 comments
Rewarding good student behaviour

After speaking with our teaching and teaching support staff, we’ve collated some examples of rewards that you may have success with in the classroom.

Tips and Tricks - 10-02-2022 - - 0 comments
Teaching resources for LGBTQ+ History Month

February is LGBTQIA+ History Month. After talking to some of our teachers we have come up with a list of ways you can incorporate this month into your teaching.

Tips and Tricks - 10-02-2022 - - 0 comments
Smile Support Pride 365

We have decided to put our own spin on Pride 365 to celebrate diversity all year round!

Tips and Tricks - 18-01-2022 - - 0 comments
A-Z of SEN terms and phrases.

We have composed a list of all the terms and phrases you need to know as a SEN teacher to make your life in the classroom more manageable.

Tips and Tricks - 18-01-2022 - - 4 comments
Teaching Assistant Levels: What Do They Mean and How Do They Differ?

Not sure what the difference between a level 2, level 3 and level 4 teaching assistant is? We've got you, here's everything you need to know about the different levels and what they mean.

Tips and Tricks - 18-01-2022 - - 0 comments
FAQ's about returning to the classroom

Following the Education Secretary's call for former and retired teachers to return to work, we've put together this FAQ to help answer any questions you might have about returning to the classroom.

Tips and Tricks - 05-01-2022 - - 0 comments
Plea for former teachers to return to the classroom

Following the continued spread of Omnicron, Education Secretary, Nadhim Zahawi, made a plea for ex-teachers to return to classrooms across the UK in a bid to support schools with the staffing shortage caused by the new variant. 

Tips and Tricks - 22-11-2021 - - 0 comments
Christmas in the Classroom - Lesson Ideas
As Christmas is around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about how you can bring the festive spirit into your classroom. The good news is that there are endless ways in which you can add Christmas magic to your lesson; whatever that lesson might be.  To help make lesson planning a little easier we’ve compiled together a num
Tips and Tricks - 08-11-2021 - - 0 comments
Our top stress-busting tips
Recruitment can be a stressful job that is made up of highs and lows. As a business, we recognise this and do our very best to help our team combat and cope with the challenges that working in the recruitment industry brings. Most recently we signed the MHIR Awareness to Action Pledge to help change th
Tips and Tricks - 12-10-2021 - - 0 comments
Scary stories to read at Halloween

Here are a few scary stories to share with your students. 

Tips and Tricks - 12-10-2021 - - 0 comments
Tips for leaders on handing stress & pressure

Here are a few tips for leaders on handling stress & pressure. 

Tips and Tricks - 12-10-2021 - - 0 comments
How to be a good role model for your staff & students

Here are a few tips on how you can be a good role model for your staff & students. 

Tips and Tricks - 12-10-2021 - - 0 comments
How to make a school great

Here are a few ways you can make your school, a great school. 

Tips and Tricks - 05-10-2021 - - 0 comments
Great places for school trips around Birmingham

Fun places in Birmingham you can visit on a school trip.

Tips and Tricks - 23-07-2021 - - 0 comments
Fun and educational places to visit in the Black Country

The summer holidays might be here but that doesn’t mean that the learning has to stop. We’ve put together a list of fun places in the Black Country and beyond that you can visit with your little ones during the school holidays. 

Tips and Tricks - 02-07-2021 - - 0 comments
Wellbeing tips for school leaders

How school leaders can improve their wellbeing and better support their students and staff.

Tips and Tricks - 18-06-2021 - - 0 comments
10 Phrases you Might Hear in Black Country Schools

We thought we’d have some light-hearted fun and take a look at 10 Black Country sayings that you might hear in schools and what they mean.

Tips and Tricks - 26-05-2021 - - 0 comments
How to become a headteacher

Advice on how to become a headteacher of a school.

Tips and Tricks - 24-05-2021 - - 0 comments
The 10 must-read books for every school leader

10 books that every aspiring and current school leader must read, what they are about and where to find them.

Tips and Tricks - 09-03-2021 - - 0 comments
Goal scoring with Smile Soccer Stars and the Albion Foundation

For a while now, we have been working closely with West Bromwich Albion Foundation to bring sport to children who might not otherwise get the opportunity. Since running our first event in 2019, Smile Soccer Stars has grown into something more than we could have ever imagined - even the pandemic couldn’t stop it! 

Tips and Tricks - 20-01-2021 - - 0 comments
Guest blog by Jessica Joan - My top tips for teachers working from home

Jessica, one of our lovely supply teachers who like many teachers is having to get used to working from home. Here she shares some tips which have helped her during this time.

Tips and Tricks - 17-12-2020 - - 0 comments
Tips for Switching-Off at Christmas

It's time to switch-off! However, we know that can be easier said than done so we’ve put together some tips to help you.

Tips and Tricks - 16-12-2020 - - 0 comments
Tips for Tutors using online video

We’ve put together some tips to help make sure that your online tutoring sessions are as successful as they can be!

Tips and Tricks - 16-12-2020 - - 0 comments
Questions parents should ask tutors

To help you find the right tutor for you and your child, you’ll need to ask each of the tutors you’re considering some questions. We’ve put together some of the questions we think are most important for you to ask below.

Tips and Tricks - 16-12-2020 - - 0 comments
Questions tutors should ask parents

As a tutor there are some key questions you should be asking both parents and students to establish what they are looking for from a tutor and how you can help. We’ve provided some examples of key questions for both below.

Tips and Tricks - 19-11-2020 - - 0 comments
How to choose the best online tutor for your child

We for most parents tutoring is unknown territory making finding the right tutor for your child a difficult and daunting task. Don’t panic or give up just yet though, we’ve put together some tips for you to help you choose the best tutor to suit your child. 

Tips and Tricks - 15-11-2020 - - 0 comments
Tips for talking about race and racism in the classroom

We've put together some tips that teachers can use to help them talk about racism with their students. 

Tips and Tricks - 12-11-2020 - - 0 comments
How to talk to children about the coronavirus

We’ve put together some tips from around the web on how to handle questions about COVID-19 and how to explain the current pandemic and lockdown.

Tips and Tricks - 10-11-2020 - - 0 comments
How your child could benefit from online tutoring
Parents and guardians turn to tutoring for many reasons. Tutoring is the perfect supplement to school learning and gives students the time and support needed to excel. Of course, as we’ve already explained there are lots of benefit to using an online tutoring service
Tips and Tricks - 31-10-2020 - - 0 comments
Tips for NQTs from education experts

Our panel of education experts share there top tips for NQTs.

Tips and Tricks - 26-10-2020 - - 0 comments
Resources to help you talk about racism in schools

We've compiled a list of resources to help you talk to students and pupils of all ages about racism and the Black Lives Matter movement.

Tips and Tricks - 23-10-2020 - - 0 comments
Our working from home tips

Our team, like 10000s of others around the country, has been doing their bit to slow the spread of the coronavirus by working from home. Now seven months in, we all pretty much feel like we’re experts so we thought it was only right we share our top tips with you

Tips and Tricks - 16-10-2020 - - 0 comments
Why choose Online Tutoring?

We have looked at the most common reasons why parents are frequently turning to Smile Tutors for their online tutoring. 

Tips and Tricks - 09-09-2020 - - 0 comments
Guest blog by Jessica Joan - Managing Back to School Anxiety

Jessica Joan is one of Smile Education's lovely supply teachers and a health and wellness coach for teachers. She shares her tips on managing back-to-school anxiety.

Tips and Tricks - 24-08-2020 - - 0 comments
Tips for the NQTs of 2020

No NQT year is easy but this year might take the crown for being the toughest. Here are our tips for the NQTs of 2020. 

Tips and Tricks - 24-08-2020 - - 0 comments
Guest blog by Suneta Bagri - Top Tips for Handling the Pressures of Teaching

We asked Suneta Bagri and Steve Walters for these tips on handling the pressures of teaching.

Tips and Tricks - 17-08-2020 - - 0 comments
Tips on Tutoring

New to online tutoring? Don’t worry, we have some great tips and suggestions to help you become the best and most effective tutor you can be. 

Tips and Tricks - 30-07-2020 - - 1 comments
What is tutoring and is it right for you?

So, you’ve heard about Smile Tutors but you’re not quite sure what one is or if it’s right for you? Don’t worry, here is everything you’ll need to know about tutoring.

Tips and Tricks - 30-07-2020 - - 0 comments
Why become a Smile Tutor?

Thinking about becoming a Smile Tutor but need a little convincing? Here are all the reasons that we think you should give it a try.

Tips and Tricks - 09-07-2020 - - 0 comments
How to spot a teacher outside of school

It might be hard for your students to believe but when you’re not at school, you’re actually just a pretty ordinary person. But spotting a teacher outside of the classroom is much easier than you think.  In this blog we tell you how.

Tips and Tricks - 02-07-2020 - - 0 comments
The advantages of supply teaching

There are lots of advantages to becoming a supply teacher and it can be the perfect job for someone who loves being in the classroom but hates the many other duties that come with a permanent teaching post.

You may have heard all the cons about supply teaching so let us tell you some of the pros.

Tips and Tricks - 22-06-2020 - - 0 comments
Guest blog by Suneta Bagri - The power of a morning routine

As it’s Wellbeing Week, we asked Suneta Bagri, former headteacher, current wellbeing coach and founder of the Every Teacher Matters project to gives her advice to school staff on how to start the day off right and give your wellbeing a boost.

Tips and Tricks - 17-06-2020 - - 0 comments
Fun science experiments you can do at home!

No school? No problem? Here we share some fun home science experiments you can enjoy with your children at home.

Tips and Tricks - 05-06-2020 - - 1 comments
Most Common Support Worker Interview Questions

Although the role of a support worker is a rewarding role (just take a look at our day in the life blog to find out more) it can also be challenging and demanding. As with any job, you’ll be expected to interview and asked a series of questions to determine your suitability to the role.

Tips and Tricks - 29-05-2020 - - 0 comments
Twitter tips for teachers

If you aren't familiar with Twitter it might seem like a bit of a minefield but it can be a really great tool for teachers and headteachers alike. Our marketing and social media executive, Kelly, shares her top Twitter tips.

Tips and Tricks - 21-05-2020 - - 0 comments
Something or nothing? Focus on well being.

In mental health awareness week Suneta Bagri has kindly shared this blog with us which share some important thoughts on wellbeing for our staff. 

Tips and Tricks - 20-05-2020 - - 0 comments
Some tips for NQT's who are job hunting

Our MD and founder Katy Rees blogs for NQTS on their job search and how agencies can be used to help especially in these unprecedented times.

Tips and Tricks - 14-05-2020 - - 0 comments
Suneta Bagri- The importance of feeling connected.

We wanted to share this fantastic blog with you as looking after our own wellbeing is more important than ever at this time. Here are some great tips from Suneta Bagri for our staff. 

Tips and Tricks - 04-05-2020 - - 0 comments
5 Life lessons you can learn from Star Wars

On May 4th we share life lessons you can learn from Star Wars.

Tips and Tricks - 30-04-2020 - - 0 comments
Looking after yourself in the current pandemic - a guest blog

One of our Supply Staff shares their experience and tips for being kind to yourself in lockdown. Jess is also a holistic health and nutrition coach.

Tips and Tricks - 27-04-2020 - - 0 comments
5 Life lessons children can learn from gardening.

On national gardening day we share 5 lessons children can learn from gardening, an ideal activity when so many of us are home schooling our children during lockdown.

Tips and Tricks - 21-04-2020 - - 0 comments
5 Top Tips for Working From Home- Suneta Bagri

We wanted to share this fantastic blog with you as home working is quite new for many of us and comes with its own challenges! Here are some great tips from Suneta Bagri for our staff. 

Tips and Tricks - 16-04-2020 - - 0 comments
Making Home Schooling Fun!

The idea of home schooling your children can be a daunting one but fear not there are lots of fun things to do with them for free. We have put them all together for you in this handy blog.

Tips and Tricks - 14-04-2020 - - 0 comments
Guest blog by Suneta Bagri - Know your worth
As supporters of the Every Teacher Matters Project we wanted to share this fantastic blog from Suneta Bagri, in these challenging times self care is more important than ever for
Tips and Tricks - 09-04-2020 - - 0 comments
Have a Cracking Easter!

As Easter is approaching, here are some fun tips for ideas of activities you can do at home. We would love it if you share any pictures of your creations with us.

Tips and Tricks - 31-03-2020 - - 1 comments
The power of positive thinking - Suneta Bagri

 

It is a tough and uncertain time for everyone right now. It’s not an easy time for any of us but we have to stay positive. Training the mind is just as important as training the body. So, we asked Suneta Bagri, former headteacher, current wellbeing coach and founder of the Every Teacher Matters project to give us along with all of our lovely school staff some tips and advice on staying positive. 

Tips and Tricks - 31-03-2020 - - 0 comments
Meditation Tips for Beginners

We asked Louise, our resident wellbeing guru (and Compliance Team Leader) to share her tips on meditation with all of our lovely school staff. Here is what she had to say...

Tips and Tricks - 31-03-2020 - - 0 comments
Let's get physical, physical!

While you can't go to the gym right now, there are plenty of things that you can do at home to keep fit - things that won't cost you a penny and that might turn out to be pretty fun.

Tips and Tricks - 25-03-2020 - - 0 comments
Spruce up your LinkedIn

Looking to spruce up your LinkedIn profile, we've got some tips for you. 

Tips and Tricks - 23-03-2020 - - 1 comments
Feeling connected - A Guest Blog by Suneta Bagri

In light of the recent school closures and government advice on social distancing, it’s apparent that we are all feeling a little out of sorts. Which is why we asked Suneta Bagri, former teacher and headteacher turned Health & Wellbeing Champion in Schools and Founder of the Every Teacher Matters Project to offer some suggestions on things that you can do to improve your mental health and wellbeing. 

Tips and Tricks - 23-03-2020 - - 0 comments
Our top tips for improving your wellbeing

Our team have been working from home for the past week now and in that time we have managed to come up with some tips to improve your wellbeing and to stop you from getting cabin fever during the school closures. 

Tips and Tricks - 15-03-2020 - - 0 comments
5 burning questions about supply teaching answered by a supply teacher

We sat down with Andrew, one of our amazing supply teachers and asked him to answer 5 of your most burning questions about supply teaching. Here is what he had to say...

Tips and Tricks - 11-03-2020 - - 0 comments
Exam Invigilation with Smile

Why do exam invigilation with Smile? This is what our exam invigilators have to say.

Tips and Tricks - 10-02-2020 - - 0 comments
How to make the most of Safer Internet Day 2020

Tomorrow is Safer Internet Day so, we’ve come up with some ideas to help you celebrate Safer Internet Day in your school or residential setting.

Tips and Tricks - 20-01-2020 - - 0 comments
Don't be blue this Blue Monday!

Our tips to help you beat the January Blues.

 

Tips and Tricks - 05-01-2020 - - 0 comments
New Year, New CV

A New Year is the start of a new beginning and if one of your New Year’s resolutions is to find a new teaching job, we at Smile have some CV tips which are sure to help you score the teaching or teaching support role of your dreams

Tips and Tricks - 05-01-2020 - - 0 comments
Keywords you should be using in your CV

Keywords, buzzwords, whatever you call them, it’s important to include them in your CV. Here are five we think that you should add to your latest CV and we’ve also been kind enough to show you just how to use them too!

Tips and Tricks - 31-12-2019 - - 0 comments
Top 10 Guided Reading Strategies for Teaching Assistants

As a teaching assistant, you will be required to lead guided reading sessions with individual children and small groups. While this might sound easy, keeping students engaged is easier said than done. But don’t worry, we have picked the brains of the many Teaching Assistants we work with and compiled a list of helpful ideas. Have a look at some of the strategies we’ve suggested.

Tips and Tricks - 09-12-2019 - - 0 comments
School technicians - what do they do?

School technicians support and assist staff and students by preparing materials and equipment and are involved in practical aspects of lessons. Typically, a school technician will specialise in a certain subject area such as science, IT, or DT.

Tips and Tricks - 02-12-2019 - - 1 comments
5 Tips for Working in Nurseries

Working in a nursery can be a very challenging job but it is important that in that environment and around the little ones you know how to work effectively. Here are 5 quick tips to help you become the best nursery worker you can be.

Tips and Tricks - 28-11-2019 - - 1 comments
The role of an exam invigilator

Considering exam invigiluation but not sure what is required? We have the answers you've been looking for.

Tips and Tricks - 24-11-2019 - - 0 comments
The best places for a school trip in Coventry

Our Coventry Education Recruitment Consultant, has been spending a lot of time in Coventry recently, registering teachers and teaching assistants and meeting with schools. During their downtime, he’s been spending some time exploring the lovely city of Coventry and finding out what it has to offer. What they discovered are some really fantastic places that would be perfect for school trips or even a fun family day out. 

Tips and Tricks - 22-10-2019 - - 0 comments
Could you be a cover supervisor?

Everything you need to know about the role of a cover supervisor.

Tips and Tricks - 11-10-2019 - - 0 comments
Our NQT Survival Guide

One in seven NQTs who had qualified in 2017 had dropped out by the following year. To help reduce this number, here are some survival tips to pass on to your NQTs to ensure that they make it through the year in one piece!

Tips and Tricks - 12-08-2019 - - 0 comments
How to become a great Science Teacher

Science is complex and at times can be confusing. So, in order for students to retain the information you are teaching, we advise that you make lessons as engaging and hands-on as possible. Doing so will help you bring the subject matter to life and ensure that they remember all about energy or cell biology or whatever you might be teaching!

Tips and Tricks - 12-08-2019 - - 0 comments
What is the difference between primary and secondary teaching?

Teaching is a great and rewarding career where you will have the opportunity to touch the lives of many young people. The biggest decision you have to make, however, is whether you would like to be a primary or secondary teacher, as while they may look similar on paper, in reality, they are very different.

Tips and Tricks - 12-08-2019 - - 0 comments
5 ways to become an even better English Teacher

As an English Teacher, you have a pretty important job as you are the person responsible for teaching children to not only read and write but to learn from their peers and have challenging conversations.

Tips and Tricks - 12-08-2019 - - 0 comments
Tips for new teachers

Doing a teaching degree and set to graduate soon? We bet we can guess that you are feeling a little nervous. Not to worry though, that’s completely normal - we’ve all had first-day jitters!

Tips and Tricks - 12-08-2019 - - 0 comments
Common NQT problems and how to solve them

Your NQT year will be full of new experiences. While some of them will be good, others might be more of a challenge. For example, you’ll get to witness children grasping a complex idea as a result of your teaching. On the other hand, you’ll also be confronted by some, at times, hairpulling (maybe literally) situations. But don’t panic, we have some advice on how to deal with them.

Tips and Tricks - 12-08-2019 - - 0 comments
Your NQT Induction - What to Expect

Your QTS is in the bag and all that stands between you and your full qualification is your NQT induction. So, what’s in store?

Tips and Tricks - 12-08-2019 - - 0 comments
7 ways to support EAL learning in primary

As a teacher, it is important to sometimes place yourself in the students of your students. For example, imagine you are given a task to complete, only to find that it’s been written in Egyptian hieroglyphics that you cannot understand. It’s likely that your confusion would quickly turn to frustration and then to disinterest. Not a nice feeling, right?

Tips and Tricks - 12-08-2019 - - 1 comments
Our 5 Top Tips for Working with Children with SEN

We are very proud to work with some fantastic special educational needs schools and residential homes across the West Midlands, as well as some amazing SEN teachers and support staff. We understand that working with children with special needs can at times be challenging but know that ultimately it’s very rewarding.

Tips and Tricks - 12-08-2019 - - 0 comments
10 Tips for New Teaching Assistants

Taking on a Teaching Assistant role is a great way of getting first-hand classroom experience before you embark on a PGCE. To help rid you of any first day nerves, we’ve put together a list of helpful tips to help prepare you for life in the classroom.

Tips and Tricks - 12-08-2019 - - 0 comments
Top revision tips to teach your students

No one really likes revising but it is essential for exam success. However, it doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom, in fact, there are ways for you to make revising more interesting and fun. Here are our top revision tips we think that your students should know.

 

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