29 Aug How to Manage Classroom Behaviour as a Primary School Supply Teacher
Being a supply teacher in a primary school often means stepping into the unknown. You may not know the students, the layout, or even the school rules—but one thing remains consistent across every setting: classroom behaviour makes or breaks your day.
While some classes will be a dream, others may challenge you from the moment you arrive. The good news? With a clear strategy and a calm presence, you can manage behaviour effectively—even if you’re only in the room for a few hours.
Below are practical, classroom-tested techniques that can help you take control quickly, build respect, and ensure a smooth and enjoyable day for both you and your students.
🧠 Why Behaviour Management Matters for Supply Teachers
You may only be with a class for a short time, but your impact can be lasting. A well-managed class:
- Enables more learning to take place
- Keeps students safe and on-task
- Helps you feel more confident and in control
- Increases your chances of being requested again by the school
If you appear disorganised or unable to manage behaviour, students can quickly lose focus—and it can snowball. But if you show consistency, fairness, and calm leadership, you set the tone for a productive day.
🚀 8 Behaviour Management Strategies for Supply Teachers
1. Set the Tone Early
The first few minutes of your day are crucial. Children are naturally curious about a new adult in the room—so make the most of this moment.
Walk in confidently, greet the class with a smile, and clearly state your name. Write it on the board and tell them what kind of day you’re hoping for. You could say:
“Good morning! I’m Mr. Jones, and I’m looking forward to a great day together. Let’s make it one we can all be proud of.”
From the beginning, communicate your expectations clearly and positively. Don’t wait for problems—prevention is key.
2. Be Clear, Consistent, and Fair
Children thrive when boundaries are clear and consistently upheld. If the class has an existing behaviour chart, rules on the wall, or house point system, use it.
Ask the teaching assistant or another member of staff what behaviour systems are in place. Refer to them early and often—especially when reinforcing expectations.
If you make a promise or warning, stick to it. For example:
- ✅ “If we can finish this activity sensibly, we’ll have a fun 5-minute game at the end.”
- ❌ Don’t say, “I’ll tell your teacher,” unless you plan to leave detailed feedback.
Being firm doesn’t mean being unfriendly. It shows students they can trust you to be fair.
3. Use Positive Reinforcement Often
Praising positive behaviour is more powerful than calling out negative behaviour—especially in primary schools, where most children genuinely want to do well.
Try to be specific:
- “Well done, Priya, for raising your hand and waiting.”
- “I really like how this table got straight to work.”
This shows other pupils what you value and encourages them to follow suit. Use the school’s existing rewards (stickers, marbles in a jar, etc.) if allowed.
Even a quick smile, thumbs-up, or silent gesture can be enough to keep things on track without interrupting the flow of a lesson.
4. Learn a Few Names Quickly
Nothing commands attention like using someone’s name. Even if you’re only there for the day, learn at least 5–6 key names early on—especially of more confident or influential students.
Use name labels on desks, a seating plan, or have students create name cards if none are available. During the register, ask each child to say their name and one fun fact to help you remember them.
“My name is Ali and I like sharks.”
“Nice to meet you, Ali! I’ll try to remember you’re the shark expert today.”
Names help you build rapport and maintain order—and they show students you’re making an effort.
5. Keep Transitions Calm and Structured
Transitions between activities—like moving from maths to lunch—are common times for behaviour to slip.
Help maintain focus by:
- Giving advance warnings: “In two minutes, we’ll stop for assembly.”
- Using countdowns: “5, 4, 3…”
- Offering clear, simple instructions: “Books closed. Pens away. Sit up straight.”
If the class is getting noisy or restless, a calm voice and a silent signal (like clapping a rhythm) can be incredibly effective.
Maintaining momentum and structure during transitions keeps behaviour from unravelling.
6. Bring Backup Activities for Downtime
One of the most common causes of behaviour issues is unstructured time. Whether a lesson finishes early or you’re left without enough plans, always have a few low-prep, engaging activities ready.
Quick, quiet-time fillers:
- Creative drawing (design a planet, superhero, or dream classroom)
- Write a short story or poem based on a funny prompt
- “Would You Rather” questions (class discussion)
Energetic brain breaks:
- Simon Says
- Stand-Up/Sit-Down trivia
- Silent Ball
These activities keep students focused and happy—and show the school you came prepared.
7. Build Instant Rapport
Even as a visitor, you can build small but meaningful connections. When students feel respected and seen, they’re more likely to behave well.
Ways to build rapport quickly:
- Greet them at the door with a smile
- Notice and compliment effort or kindness
- Respond with humour when appropriate
It’s about striking a balance—being approachable without being too casual. Children respond best to adults who are both kind and in control.
8. Leave a Detailed Note for the Class Teacher
One of the best things you can do at the end of the day is to leave a behaviour report for the regular teacher.
Include:
- Positive notes (e.g., “Lacey and Jamil were great helpers during cleanup.”)
- Any concerns (e.g., “There was some chatting during the spelling test, especially from the back row.”)
- Any changes made to routines (e.g., “We finished maths early and played a team-building game.”)
Teachers appreciate the transparency, and students are more likely to behave knowing you’ll be reporting back.
No matter how short your time with a class may be, the way you manage behaviour has a lasting impact. By setting a calm, consistent tone and building quick connections, you can create a positive learning environment where every pupil feels safe and supported. These strategies aren’t just about keeping order—they’re about helping you feel confident, respected, and ready to teach at your best. With the right tools and mindset, every supply day can be a success.
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