05 Sep Mental Health in Supply Teaching: How Moore Teachers Supports You Every Step of the Way
Because your wellbeing matters as much as your work.
Being a supply teacher or supply teaching assistant can be deeply rewarding. You bring energy and flexibility into schools, adapt quickly to new environments, and make a difference—often at a moment’s notice.
But let’s be honest—it’s not always easy.
The lack of routine, unpredictability, and limited support structures can make even the most resilient educators feel stretched. That’s why at Moore Teachers, we’re passionate about supporting our staff’s mental health and wellbeing—not just because it’s important, but because we genuinely care.
🌱 Why Mental Health Is Vital in Supply Roles
Supply staff often face unique challenges, including:
- Unpredictable schedules
- Frequent changes in school environments
- Lack of continuity and relationships
- Pressure to “hit the ground running” every day
All of these can impact mental wellbeing. That’s why looking after your mental health as a supply teacher or TA isn’t a luxury—it’s essential.
💙 What Makes Moore Teachers Different?
At Moore Teachers, we go beyond bookings. We prioritise your wellbeing with dedicated support that recognises you as a person—not just a placement.
✅ Workplace Health Champions
We are proud to be recognised Workplace Health Champions, actively promoting positive mental health practices across our team and the schools we work with.
📞 Regular Wellbeing Calls
Our check-ins go deeper than just availability. We talk about how you’re doing—celebrating good days and supporting you through the tough ones.
💬 Support Beyond the Classroom
Need advice after a challenging day? Struggling with work-life balance? Looking for classroom strategies? We’re here for all of it—on the phone, over email, or in person.
🧠 Practical Mental Health Strategies for Supply Teachers and TAs
While we’re always here to support you, there are also powerful strategies you can use to stay grounded, confident, and mentally healthy in your role.
🧭 1. Establish a Routine (Even if Work Isn’t Routine)
A solid daily routine provides structure and emotional stability.
Try this:
- Start your day with a calm, tech-free ritual—like 10 minutes of stretching, meditation, or journaling
- Prep the night before: clothes, lunch, supply kit
- Use an evening wind-down routine to mentally switch off from the classroom
Creating consistency at home helps offset the unpredictability of supply work.
🎒 2. Keep a “Supply Survival Kit” Ready
Confidence thrives on preparation. Pack a ready-to-go kit to help you feel calm and in control, wherever you’re placed.
What to include:
- Mini behaviour prompts (e.g. praise postcards or reward charts)
- Emergency lesson fillers (like time-fillers or brain breaks)
- Your own stationery and notepad
- Self-care items: water, healthy snacks, stress ball, lip balm
- A logbook to jot down school details, pupil names, routines, etc.
Need resource ideas? Ask us—we’re happy to help.
🚫 3. Set Clear Boundaries and Protect Your Energy
You’re there to do a great job—but you’re not expected to do everything. Boundaries are key to long-term wellbeing.
Boundaries to consider:
- Say no to tasks outside your remit (unless pre-agreed)
- Leave on time when your contract allows
- Take full breaks—even if it means stepping away from the staffroom for quiet time
If a school places unreasonable demands on you, we’ll advocate for you.
✍️ 4. Reflect Without Harsh Self-Judgment
Every day brings different challenges. Learn from your experiences—but don’t beat yourself up.
Use this 3-step reflection:
- What went well today?
- What could I try differently next time?
- What am I proud of?
We often debrief with our supply staff after placements—reflection is something we support, not something you have to do alone.
🤝 5. Stay Connected and Build Your Network
You may move between schools—but that doesn’t mean you have to feel alone.
Ways to stay connected:
- Join supply teacher communities online
- Attend Moore Teachers events or group training sessions
- Schedule regular chats with other educators—even just a weekly WhatsApp catch-up helps
Moore Teachers is a team, not just an agency—you’re part of it.
🛌 6. Take Mental Health Days When Needed
It’s okay to step back. Your wellbeing is the foundation for everything else.
Warning signs to listen to:
- Ongoing tiredness or irritability
- Trouble sleeping
- Feeling overwhelmed before the day even begins
Moore Teachers will never pressure you to work when you’re not well. Your health comes first—always.
🧠 7. Reach Out for Professional Help
Sometimes, the best support is expert support. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, low mood, or persistent stress, talking to a professional can make all the difference.
Resources we recommend:
- Education Support – free UK support service for teachers
- Your GP – for referrals to counselling or mental health services
- Private therapy – we can point you toward trusted providers and our staff have free access to mental health support
As part of our support, we’re happy to help you explore options confidentially.
🌟 You Deserve More. That’s Why There’s Moore.
We’re not just here to find your next role—we’re here to help you thrive in it.
At Moore Teachers, we believe:
- Mentally healthy teachers make a bigger impact
- TAs and supply teachers deserve real support
- Your wellbeing is our priority—not a bonus
So whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been in education for years, we’re here to back you, believe in you, and stand by you—every step of the way.
👉 Ready to Join a Primary Specialist Teaching Agency That Truly Supports You?
Whether you’re looking for flexible roles or a community that truly puts staff wellbeing first, Moore Teachers is here for you.
📞 Call: 01992 611902
📧 Online: Contact Us