How to Secure Long-Term Work with Uniform Education
If you are working with a supply education agency or attending a trial week in a school, your performance during this period is critical. At Uniform Education, we place high-quality education professionals into schools across London and the Home Counties, with particularly strong partnerships in Barnet, Croydon, Hillingdon, Dagenham and Redbridge.
Trial weeks are not informal observations. Schools use them to assess your professionalism, reliability, safeguarding awareness and overall suitability for ongoing supply or long-term roles.
This guidance outlines exactly what schools expect and how to position yourself successfully.
Why Trial Weeks Matter in Supply Education
Schools work under increasing pressure, strict safeguarding frameworks and limited staffing budgets. When engaging a supply agency, schools use trial periods to determine whether a candidate is someone they can rely on consistently.
During a trial, schools assess:
Punctuality and attendance
Professional conduct
Engagement with pupils
Ability to follow direction
Fit within the school culture
Strong trial performance regularly leads to ongoing supply bookings or long-term placements.
Trial Week Do’s – What Schools Expect
Arrive Early Every Day
Aim to be on site 10–15 minutes before your start time. Punctuality is one of the most important indicators of reliability.
Follow Safeguarding Procedures
Sign in and out correctly
Wear your ID badge if issued
Follow all safeguarding, behaviour and data-protection policies
This applies to all schools, whether in Barnet, Croydon, Hillingdon, Dagenham, Redbridge or elsewhere across London and surrounding areas.
Be Proactive and Engaged
Schools expect supply staff to:
Observe pupils carefully
Support learning and behaviour
Step in where appropriate
Sitting back and waiting to be directed is viewed negatively.
Take Direction from Teachers and SENCo
Always follow the guidance of:
Class teachers
SENCo
Senior leadership
Remain within your assigned role and responsibilities at all times.
Maintain Professional Standards
Dress appropriately for a school environment
Communicate clearly and respectfully
Model positive behaviour
Your conduct reflects both you and Uniform Education.
Build Appropriate Rapport with Pupils
Be calm, patient and consistent while maintaining clear professional boundaries.
Ask Questions When Unsure
If expectations are unclear, ask discreetly. Schools value clarity and professionalism over assumptions.
Trial Week Don’ts – Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not arrive late or leave early without approval
Do not use your mobile phone during lessons or around pupils
Do not remain passive or disengaged
Do not challenge staff in front of pupils
Do not discuss pupils or school matters outside the school environment
Do not take photos or videos under any circumstances
Do not overstep your role
Do not raise concerns in front of students
Any issues should be escalated privately and appropriately.
Attendance & Communication Expectations
Sickness
Notify Uniform Education by 7:00am if you are unwell. Early communication protects your professional reputation and supports schools with cover arrangements.
Issues or Concerns
Contact your Uniform Education consultant immediately. Do not attempt to manage serious concerns independently.
Commitment Is Key
Trial weeks are frequently used to decide:
Long-term supply cover
Fixed-term contracts
Permanent appointments
Consistency and reliability are critical decision-making factors.
Final Advice from Uniform Education
Schools across Barnet, Croydon, Hillingdon, Dagenham, Redbridge, and wider London and the Home Counties proceed only with candidates who demonstrate:
Reliability
Professionalism
Strong engagement
Respect for school systems
Your trial week is your opportunity to secure ongoing work with a trusted supply agency and build long-term relationships with schools.
Looking for Supply Work in Schools?
Uniform Education is an experienced education recruitment agency supporting supply teachers, teaching assistants, SEND staff and tutors across London and the Home Counties. Whether you are seeking daily supply, long-term placements or permanent roles, our team works closely with schools to match the right people to the right environments.
