For Candidates

The UK's Only Non For Profit Supply Agency
For Schools. By Schools.

Our Simple Registration Process

Register Online

Create your profile in minutes

Submit Details

We’ll review your information and get in touch

Speak With Our Team

A friendly chat to understand your experience and what you’re looking for

Compliance Checks

We’ll complete all necessary checks for your peace of mind

Start Working

Access great opportunities at schools near you

Supply Work -
Flexibility that works for you

Supply work gives you the freedom to choose the days, schools and roles that suit your lifestyle.

  • Work when it suits you Choose the days and locations that fit around your life.
  • Variety and experience Work in different schools and year groups.
  • Make a difference every day Support pupils and schools when they need you most.
  • Pathways to permanent roles Many of our supply roles lead to long-term opportunities.

We're with you
every step of the way

From your first registration to you first day in a school – and beyond. Our team is here to support you whenever you need us.

Why Choose SMS?

Best Rates of Pay

Competitive pay aligned to national pay scales

PAYE Only

You’ll always be paid through PAYE – no umbrella companies

Enhanced Pension

Access our enhanced pension scheme from day one

Health & Wellbeing

Support for your physical and mental wellbeing

CPD & Training

Access to ongoing training and career development

Dedicated Support

A personal consultant who gets to know you and your goals

Resources to support you

    From CV tips to interview advide and guidance on working in schools - our resources are here to help you succeed.

RESOURCES

FAQs

Getting started couldn't be easier. Simply upload your CV using our online registration form and one of our friendly recruitment consultants will be in touch.

We'll arrange a convenient time to discuss your experience, the type of work you're looking for and the schools or locations you'd like to work in. From there, we'll guide you through our straightforward compliance process, including your safeguarding and pre-employment checks.

Once everything is complete, you'll become part of the Schools Mutual Services community, and we'll start matching you with opportunities that suit your skills, availability and career goals.

We're here to support you every step of the way, making the registration process simple, personal and stress-free.

You will be paid weekly, following the week you have worked. We operate a straightforward PAYE payroll, so you'll always know exactly what you're being paid, with no umbrella companies or hidden deductions. Our team will explain the payroll process during your registration to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Safeguarding is at the heart of everything we do. Before you can begin working in schools, we'll complete all the necessary compliance checks, which may include:

  • Enhanced DBS check (or update through the DBS Update Service)
  • Right to Work verification
  • Identity checks
  • Qualification verification (where applicable)
  • Employment history review
  • Professional references
  • Overseas checks where required
  • Prohibition and safeguarding checks in line with current legislation

Our experienced compliance team will guide you through every step, making the process as simple and straightforward as possible.

Yes. While many candidates join us for flexible supply work, we also work with schools and Multi-Academy Trusts to recruit for permanent teaching, leadership and support staff positions. Whether you're looking for day-to-day supply, long-term placements or your next permanent opportunity, we'll help you find a role that suits your experience, career goals and lifestyle.

Once you've completed your registration and compliance checks, you'll be introduced to your dedicated recruitment consultant. They'll take the time to understand your preferences, including:

  • The locations you'd like to work in
  • The year groups or subjects you enjoy
  • The type of work you're looking for
  • Your availability

We'll then contact you with suitable opportunities, often giving you the chance to accept work quickly by phone, email or messaging. Our aim is to build long-term relationships and place you in schools where you'll thrive.

Absolutely. Many of our candidates choose to work across multiple schools, towns or regions. If you're happy to travel, we'll discuss the locations you're comfortable covering and match you with opportunities that fit your preferences. The more flexible you are, the wider the range of opportunities available, but you'll never be expected to travel further than you're happy to.

Leave your details and we'll be in touch

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