I have just started supply teaching in Scotland after qualifying in England last year and am following the alternative route through supply teaching to complete my probation year. I was wondering if anyone else who has been through or is going through this route would be able to give me any advice or information, as the only help I can find is through guidance notes on the GTCS website. I would really appreciate anyone who has experience of the alternative route to let me know how you found it, especially with regards to the level of support you received.

Hi Liz,
Having reached about the half way point of my Alternative Route probation period I can fill you in on my experiences. I was thrown completely in the deep end with a full teaching load in January. Your situation may differ from mine as I've been in the one school and will most likely see my probation period through there. If you're able to stay in one post it will take 190 days of full time teaching (provided you meet all the req's), otherwise with short term contracts or supply that'll bump it up to 270 days. Whatever school you're at there's likley to be a depute or teacher in charge of probationers - speak to them asap and seek as much support as you can. I've found that being too proud to ask gets you nowhere so ask as many questions as you need. Be well versed on your requirements, eg. CPD, supporter meetings, observation etc. You will still need to complete these but not as rigorously as the 'regular' route. Start a spreadsheet and keep a record of all your CPD, even if it's just reading or research - this all counts. Try to get someone to observe you teaching (ask them to focus on an aspect/s in particular) and ask that they take some notes on strengths/areas for improvement. Although this is a requirement, I've also found it very enlightening. Must say I FREAKED out at first as the enormity of all this, plus just trying to get through the teaching day, can be overwhelming but as long as you make it a habit to keep records and try to follow the Standard for Full Rego, it'll be fine. May be a completely different kettle of fish with supply, can only speak from a temp post perspetive. Good Luck! P.S. Any querries email GTC (the probationer email) they are very helpful and friendly!

Posted by: LS

(This was posted on our previous discussion forum. It will not be possible to reply direct to this user.)

Well, been on the alternative route since Easter and haven't had a single nibble.

I had 2 interviews for a special school in Fife and they didn't take me cos i am too young they think-- a brilliant candidate but young.

Getting work isn't easy and I am just asking around and applying for any jobs i see,

I got a Job :) in August and have been teaching English since. it looks like it will be long term supply. they couldn't fill the post after interviews as no one would take it. However, I am a probationer of music and am wondering if I could get my probation/registration in English as an additional subject. I have been doing really well.. any thoughtss?

Edit June 1st 2009

Have had a great time this year, working Fulltime in a Special School as their Music Teacher. Very busy. That was from the last two weeks in April.

Will need to work out how soon I can apply for full registration. Should I send an interim profile before the summer holidays?

Hugs Emma xoxoxoxoox

Hi Liz

I am in the same postion - moved up to Scotland having trained in England and now need to do my probabationary year.  I am finding the whole thing daunting so far and I havent even started!!  Have you managed to find work?  And are you managing to get all the observations/meetings/reports done?  I would love to hear how you are getting on.