Story 75

Age: 63

Teaching Experience: 5-8 years

Contract Type: Permanent

I was fortunate in the beginning being able to complete my flexible route probation through a mixture of supply and numerous temporary contracts. Post ECT there were consecutive temporary short term contracts which ultimately did not lead to permanency, due to lack of available posts.

Supply teaching, zero hour contracts and financial uncertainty followed. Twenty two applications and twenty interviews needed to secure a part time temporary post.

The temporary post was extended and eventually made permanent. I continued to work supply to make up to full time hours. 

Three years on I was given the option to take one of my pensions early. My pension payment means that I no longer need to rely on the precarious supply work to supplement my part time salary, giving me the financial security that Supply Teaching did not.

The Local Authority continues to advertise for Supply Teachers although there are very few supply days on offer.