Frequently Asked Questions

Whether you are a supply teacher or support staff member looking for your next placement, or a school that needs reliable cover at short notice, here are the answers to the questions we get asked most often. If you cannot find what you are looking for, call us on 01273 626 800 or get in touch.

For Teachers, Teaching Assistants and Support Staff

How do I register with Sussex Teachers?

You can register your interest online in a couple of minutes using our registration form, or call us on 01273 626 800 for a chat first. Once we have your details, a member of our team will contact you to talk through your experience, availability and the next steps, including your DBS check and reference checks.

What checks and qualifications do I need to work through Sussex Teachers?

All teachers and support staff placed by Sussex Teachers must have an enhanced DBS check and meet DfE safeguarding standards under Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSiE). Teachers need Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or to be a qualified ECT, though we also consider trainee and overseas-trained teachers on a case by case basis. Teaching Assistants and Support Staff need relevant experience or qualifications, but not necessarily QTS.

How much can I earn as a supply teacher or Teaching Assistant?

Daily rates vary depending on your role, experience and the school, but our current supply teacher roles in Brighton and Hove pay up to £130 per day, and Teaching Assistant roles typically pay around £14.50 per hour. You can see live rates on our current Teacher and Support Staff vacancies.

Can I choose which days I work?

Yes. Most of our supply work is flexible day to day or short term cover, so you can set your own availability and only take the bookings that suit you. If you would prefer a longer term or full time placement, we have those opportunities too and can match you accordingly.

I'm returning to teaching after a break, can Sussex Teachers help?

Yes, we regularly support teachers coming back to the classroom after maternity, paternity or another career break. We can ease you back in with short, flexible supply days before moving into longer bookings once you feel ready.

Which areas do you cover?

We place supply teachers and support staff in primary schools across Brighton and Hove, and throughout East and West Sussex, including Worthing, Lancing, Eastbourne, Hailsham, Lewes, Newhaven and Shoreham-by-Sea.

For Schools

How quickly can you provide cover for my school?

We can usually arrange day to day supply cover at very short notice, often the same day, and we will always try to match you with a teacher or Teaching Assistant who already knows your school where possible. For planned absences or longer term cover, the earlier you let us know, the more choice we have.

Are all your supply staff DBS-checked and safeguarding trained?

Yes. Every teacher and support staff member we place holds an enhanced DBS check and has been vetted to DfE safeguarding standards under Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSiE), so you can be confident whoever we send is compliant and ready to work.

How do I book a supply teacher or Teaching Assistant?

Call us on 01273 626 800 or get in touch through our contact page, and let us know the dates, year group or subject, and any specific requirements. We will confirm a suitable match as quickly as we can.

What age range and subjects do you cover?

We specialise in primary education, covering all year groups from Early Years through to Year 6, including SEND and SEMH support roles, across all primary subjects.