Frequently Asked Questions

Learn more about working at Smile Education

We've rounded up some of the top questions from teachers, teaching assistants and school support staff and answered them here. Can't find the information you're looking for? Contact us using our enquiry form or call 0121 392 6570.

What types of roles do you offer at Smile Education?

We offer day-to-day supply and other school roles, as well as long-term and permanent work too. We offer work for all school roles, including teachers, teaching assistants, cover supervisors, administrators, school cleaners, caretakers and more. This includes primary, secondary, SEN and alternative provision schools.

How do I register with Smile Education?

Simply call us on 0121 392 6570 or apply for a role on our website.

What happens when I register?

We’ll ensure to have an introductory call with you to discuss your experience, qualifications and career goals, and if you’re suitable for work with us, we’ll book you into an interview. You’ll need to complete a registration form before this, which will include referee details as well as proof of qualifications, address and right to work documents. Following your interview and once we have obtained all the information we need from you and our safeguarding checks have gone through, the registration process is complete.

What qualifications do I need to start work?

This depends on the role you’re looking to apply for. Many of our roles require some level of qualification and experience in working with children. For example, if you’re looking for a teaching role, it’s likely you’ll need QTS. If you’re looking to be a teaching assistant, you may need a level 3 qualification. There are roles available if you are not qualified, however, or are currently undertaking a qualification.

Which areas do you cover?

We work with schools within the West Midlands, East Midlands, North West and South Yorkshire.

Do you offer visa sponsorship?

We do not currently offer visa sponsorship.

I’m only free a few days per week. Can I still work with you?

We can find a role that will suit your lifestyle, preferred working patterns or studies. Let us know about the days you’re available to work, and we’ll do our best to accommodate this.

My DBS is on the Update Service, can I use this one?

Yes – you can use this DBS. If it’s on the Update Service, let us know the DBS number and we’ll be able to access it.

I have an existing DBS, but it’s not on the Update Service?

In order to put you forward for work, we will need to put a new DBS into process for you. We will send you a link to complete this. This will cost £59.40, but will be refunded to you once you’ve worked 10 days with us.

What if I don’t have a DBS?

If you don't have a valid DBS, we will send you a link to complete this. You'll need to provide a number of documents as well as the information needed to complete the DBS process. A DBS costs £59.40. This can be paid quickly and easily by bank transfer - we will supply you with our details upon registration. The good news is that once you’ve completed 10 days of work with us, we’ll refund this to you. You can learn more about the DBS process here.

Can I register with more than one agency?

Yes, you are able to register with as many agencies as you like. Let us know when you’re going to be unavailable or when you’re free for work as early in advance as possible.

Will I have a choice of schools/roles?

Of course – you can choose the roles and schools that you feel are right for you.

Will I have to travel far to get to work?

Again, that’s totally up to you. When you’re registering with us, let us know how far you’re willing to travel, and the areas you’d like to work in. We’ll then ensure that we look for work within those areas for you.

I don’t drive, will this affect what roles I am offered?

At your interview we’ll make sure to ask you how you will be travelling to work. We’ll keep this in mind when offering roles to you so you’re able to get there in a reasonable amount of time via public transport.

What is the pay like?

Rates of pay vary between schools, roles and areas. However, pay tends to depend on your experience. We’ll discuss this when you register and put you forward for specific roles.

Will I always get a call in the morning or can I get booked in advance?

This depends on the type of work you are looking for. We ask each of our school staff for the notice they require for work so if you don’t want early morning calls you won’t receive them. Many of our schools book in advance, so you won’t be at a disadvantage either way!

Our latest school roles

  • Posted: 12-12-2024
  • Category: Secondary Teachers
  • Location: Coventry
  • Posted: 12-12-2024
  • Category: Secondary Teachers
  • Location: Sheffield
  • Posted: 12-12-2024
  • Category: Secondary Teachers
  • Location: Sheffield

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