Smile Success Stories

Why does working for Smile make you proud?

Finding a work-life balance can be tough especially for teachers working in schools. But as a supply teaching agency, we are able to help people discover that balance without making huge sacrifices.

How have you made someone Smile?

A couple of years ago I was approached by a friend who had taught in secondary for 6 years before taking 9 months off for maternity leave. After just a half term of returning to her full-time teaching post working over 60 hours per week, the consequences of not spending time with her young son were becoming apparent. One Sunday afternoon we were discussing work and I explained the benefits of supply and how it really can achieve a work-life balance. Within a couple of months, she had handed in her notice and registered with me and started to do day to day cover.

Why did this make them smile?

Working as a supply teacher allowed Louise to not only continue teaching but spend more time with her son. After her first week working as a supply teacher she sent me this lovely message:

"I can happily say after my first week - I love the fact that when I get in I am a full-time mommy and have my weekends to myself. I cannot thank Olivia and the team at Smile enough for all their guidance and support. I am now a very happy working mommy who looks forward to new challenges every day!"

Why does working for Smile make you proud?

We help teachers and support staff find their love for teaching again. 

How have you made someone Smile?

I interviewed a lovely lady called Sonia who hadn't had the best time at her previous school. Her confidence was knocked and she wanted a change of school and to get back her love of teaching. It took a long time to get her file cleared for work as her previous school were really difficult about providing a reference for her. But, we got there in the end and I was able to place her almost right away at a school local to her, who loved her and seen her for the fantastic teacher that she really is.  

Why did this make them smile?

Sonia loved working on long-term supply at one of the academies that we work with and they loved her too, offering her a permanent role there after a few short months. While she's no longer working at the same school, she is still a part of the academy trust and has since been promoted, assistant headteacher! We still speak often on as she regularly calls me to book supply.

Why does working for Smile make you proud?

We get to help teachers, teaching assistants and support staff find the perfect school and role for them.

How have you made someone Smile?

Luise taught my daughter at Little Sutton Primary and fell pregnant during her NQT year cutting her time there short. After her maternity leave, she joined Smile and we were able to place her into another local school, where she's been ever since! 

Why did this make them smile?

We were able to support Luise and help her find a job that she loved. She has now been teaching at Mere Green Primary and has happily become part of the school family.