Running for cover

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Recent legislation and its implications for lesson cover could mean more work for supply teachers, but the rules on who can do this have changed and may put some of their jobs in jeopardy. Angie Tulsie, Head of Maths at Lister Community School in east London, outlines what she is looking for in a top quality supply teacher and the benefits to her from such a placement. Andy Krokou, School Manager comments on the growth of commercial supply agencies. Jan Fullwood, who runs a not-for-profit agency for the London Borough of Brent, explains the advantages of having a small service based in local schools. Lister also employs a Cover Supervisor. This full-time post offers continuity and the opportunity to get to know the pupils well. However cover supervisors do not need to be qualified teachers and there is concern that using them may be a false economy and that teachers and senior managers will have to pick up the pieces.