FAQs for Teachers

Why Choose West Country?

We are the largest Primary Supply Agency in Wiltshire. We have been operating for over 20 years, schools stay with us and trust us, teachers come to us through recommendation and return to us when their circumstances require flexibility. We work hard to understand the teaching environment which suits you and to place you in local schools where you enjoy a day, week or term’s satisfying and productive teaching.

How much do you Pay?

We pay a competitive daily supply rate. We also monitor your work to ensure that if your daily duties increase in a long-term role you are compensated for that work. We abide by the Agency Worker Regulations 2010. More information on the Agency Worker Regulations can be found here:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/agency-workers-regulations-2010-guidance-for-recruiters

Do you provide a pension scheme?

We are unable to pay into the Teacher’s Pension Scheme, however, we are legally obliged to provide all workers who earn the qualifying amount with a worker’s pension. We pay into the Nest Workplace Pension Scheme which was set up by and is backed by the government.

How do I get a DBS Certificate?

We can apply to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly Criminal Records Bureau) on your behalf to conduct an Enhanced DBS disclosure check, for you. The DBS do make a small charge for this – currently £49.50

All of our teachers must have a DBS which is on the Update Service.

What happens if I would prefer not to go to a certain school?

All schools are different and in Wiltshire we are very fortunate to have a wide variety of different schools available. When offering you opportunities to work we always take your personal preferences into account.

Can I choose when I work?

Supply work is wonderfully flexible. You can choose whether you want day to day supply or would like regular or long-term work. You can choose to be available for 5 days a week or to work days that suit, perhaps around another job or childcare. You can also choose whether to take bookings in advance or to maximise your earnings potential by taking calls on the day as well.

Will the teaching be planned?

Some schools will plan the teaching work, others may ask you to bring your own planning. Either way we suggest that all of our teachers have age appropriate work with them that they can use as time fillers or in unforeseen circumstances.

Do you provide CPD?

Our Teachers section of the website provides links to online CPD. When appropriate we also provide teacher training days with supply targeted CPD.

What do I need to join?

To work for West Country Educational Agency, you will have a face to face interview at our office. You must provide original documentation of the following:

  • Proof of relevant qualifications
  • 2 teaching references from recent employers, including your last or current employer.
  • Photographic proof of identity – valid driving licence or passport.
  • Proof of your legal right to work in the UK
  • Proof of address – driving licence, utility bill or bank statements showing your current address.
  • National Insurance Number.
  • Overseas police check if applicable.
  • You will be required provide a DBS on the update system (we can facilitate this if necessary).
  • Proof of recent level 2 Safeguarding training.
  • Proof of change of name if necessary.
  • A CV providing full employment history with no unexplained gaps.
  • Proof of your current pay grading.

In addition, you will be expected to have:

  • Recent experience of teaching/support work
  • A good command of the English language.

I currently live overseas. How do I register?

As a person living overseas we are unable to process your application until you reach the UK. Overseas teachers are required to provide proof of comparative qualifications, formal certification is provided by UK NARIC, visa and permission to work in the UK. All teachers must attend a personal interview with one of our consultants prior to working for WCEA.

You can however register your interest in working for WCEA from your home country. We will then activate your file when you arrive in the UK.

How do I make a complaint?

West Country Educational Agency endeavour to provide you with the best service possible and we hope you will have no reason to complain. However, if there is something which you believe needs improving or would like feedback on, please call us on 01225 706726. If you wish to formally record your issue please address your queries to:

Mrs P Wiltshire
West Country Educational Agency
1 Canon Square
Melksham
Wiltshire
SN12 6LX

Or email us at HR@westcountryagency.co.uk

We aim to respond to every complaint within 7 days and our complaints procedure can be found on this website.

When do I get paid?

You are paid weekly, a week in arrears. Timesheets are to be sent to the office by 9.00am on a Monday morning or the last day of term.