Long-term supply – school hinted at a permanent role but no update… what would you do?

[Sk999]

Hi all,
I’m after a bit of advice please.

I’m currently working as a long-term supply teacher in a primary school and things were going really well in the first term. At the end of that term, the deputy head spoke to me and asked how I’d feel about staying on permanently. I said I’d love to, and she said they’d need to look at budgets and discuss it at the trust budget meeting.

Since then, she’s mentioned again that they haven’t forgotten about me, but I still don’t have anything confirmed and nothing has come directly from the headteacher. I’ve been putting in a lot of effort and I’m starting to feel anxious about continuing to go above and beyond without any certainty.

September jobs are starting to be advertised now, and I don’t want to miss out on other opportunities if there isn’t going to be a permanent post for me at this school. On top of that, my husband and I are hoping to move house soon and mortgage lenders will want clarity around my employment.

Would it be reasonable to email the deputy head (and CC the headteacher) to ask for an update? Or should I just start applying elsewhere and assume nothing is happening?

Any advice appreciated.

I would speak casually to the Deputy and say something along the lines of 'I know we've had a conversation in the past about the possibility of me staying on permanently, but I will need a firm offer by February half term or I'm afraid I'll also be applying for roles elsewhere. I would be happy to continue here, but obviously can't hang about in limbo and miss out on a permanent role altogether. Hopefully the budget can be agreed before then'.

It's calm and clear and is perfectly reasonable. You can't hang about on the vague suggestion of an offer and it puts the ball in their court if they want to keep you. (I'm a teacher who retired this summer after 30 plus years)

It’s perfectly reasonable to do both.

Thank you for the advice you are right! I should write it in an email and give them set time like you have said - so the whether they act on it or not - then I won’t feel bad for applying elsewhere.