How many school days in a year? Budget calculator for supply staff

In the UK, there are typically 190 school days in an academic year.* These are spread across three terms, with breaks for half-term, Christmas, Easter, and summer holidays. For supply teachers, this means 190 opportunities to work and earn, though the flexibility of supply work also allows you to take days off when needed. If you’re considering a career as a supply teacher, one of the first questions you might have is, “How many school days are there in a year?”

Knowing this is key to planning your workload, calculating your potential earnings, and making the most of your well-deserved breaks.

*Local authority maintained schools are required to be open for 195 days, although 5 of these days are reserved for inset or teacher training. The 190 days consists of 380 sessions (a morning and afternoon session each day). Free or independent schools are able to set their own term timetables, so may vary  from this total.

Budgeting for the Year: How Many School Days in a Year?

Once you know your daily rate as a supply teacher or teaching assistant, you can quickly estimate your annual earnings based on the school year. For example:

• If your daily rate is £120, working all 190 days could earn you £22,800.
• If you prefer a more flexible schedule, working 150 days at the same rate would bring in £18,000.

Note that free schools have the flexibility to set their own term dates, which can affect the number of working days available for supply teachers.

Supply teaching offers the freedom to tailor your workload to your lifestyle, whether you’re looking for full-time hours or part-time flexibility.

Preparing for School Term Dates and Holidays

One of the perks of supply teaching is the chance to enjoy breaks during school terms. For instance, the autumn term often includes a two-week half-term break, which can be a great time to plan a holiday. While these breaks are unpaid, planning ahead can help you budget effectively. Setting aside a portion of your earnings during term time can ensure you’re financially comfortable during the holidays.

What Can You Expect Your Daily Rate to Be?

Daily rates for supply teachers in the UK can vary depending on location, experience, and the type of role. On average, supply staff can expect to earn between £100 and £200 per day. In some areas or for more specialised roles, rates can go up to £200 or more.

Knowing your daily rate is essential for planning your finances and understanding your earning potential. If you’re unsure about the rates in your area, our team at Prospero Teaching can provide tailored advice to help you make informed decisions.

Managing School Expenses

Managing school expenses is a crucial aspect of ensuring that schools operate efficiently and effectively. Local authorities play a significant role in this by determining school term dates for local authority maintained schools. These dates dictate that schools must be open to pupils for 190 days in an academic year, while teachers are required to work for 195 days. This structure necessitates careful budgeting for staffing, resources, and facilities throughout the entire academic year.

Voluntary aided schools, foundation schools, and academies, on the other hand, have the autonomy to set their own holiday dates. This flexibility allows them to tailor their schedules to better meet their specific needs, but it also means they must be diligent in their budget planning to accommodate these variations. These schools might choose term dates that do not align with those set by the local authority, which can lead to different financial implications.

Additionally, schools must allocate funds for training days, which are essential for professional development. These training days, often referred to as INSET days, are set at the discretion of the school and are crucial for helping staff stay updated with the latest educational practices and policies. Proper budgeting for these days ensures that schools can continue to meet their academic goals and provide high-quality education.

Speak to an expert on education recruitment

At Prospero Teaching, we’re here to help you make the most of your supply teaching career. Whether you’re curious about daily rates in your area, looking for advice on managing your schedule, or ready to find your next role, our expert consultants are just a click away.

Register with Prospero Teaching today to explore your options and take the next step towards a rewarding and flexible career in education.