GCA Supply Teachers Framework 2026: A Guide for Schools
The GCA supply teachers framework is changing how schools and academy trusts recruit temporary teaching staff. If you need supply teachers, teaching assistants or reliable classroom support, understanding the new framework can help you control costs, meet procurement requirements and find suitable staff.
From September 2026, academy trusts in England must use the Government Commercial Agency (GCA) framework for agency supply staffing, unless they use a permitted alternative procurement route.
The framework, known as RM6376: Supply Teachers and Education Recruitment, gives eligible schools access to approved recruitment agencies, transparent costs and agreed contractual terms.
Milk Education is an approved Lot 1 supplier under RM6376. We help schools and trusts recruit teachers, teaching assistants and education support staff. We also help educators find rewarding supply opportunities.
Our support goes beyond recruitment. Through Unbottled, powered by Milk Education, we also help schools support personal development, wellbeing and meaningful learning beyond the classroom.
In this guide, we explain what the framework means, how schools can use it and what teachers and support staff need to know.
What Is the GCA Supply Teachers Framework?
The GCA supply teachers framework is a government procurement agreement that helps eligible schools and education organisations recruit staff through approved agencies.
It is managed by the Government Commercial Agency, which replaced Crown Commercial Service in April 2026.
The current agreement is called RM6376: Supply Teachers and Education Recruitment. It runs from 30 April 2026 to 29 April 2029.
The framework covers temporary, fixed-term and permanent recruitment through education staffing agencies. Roles covered include:
- Primary and secondary school teachers
- Supply teachers and subject specialists
- Teaching assistants and learning support assistants
- SEND and specialist education support staff
- Cover supervisors
- Pastoral and behaviour support staff
- School administrators and operational staff
- Senior leaders and other education professionals
For schools, the aim is straightforward. The framework offers an established way to buy education recruitment services, with clearer costs and approved suppliers.
You can review the agreement on the official GCA RM6376 framework page.
Is the GCA Framework Mandatory for Schools in 2026?
From September 2026, single-academy and multi-academy trusts in England must use the GCA framework when buying agency supply staff, unless they follow a permitted alternative procurement route.
Any alternative must meet the relevant procurement requirements and the Department for Education’s conditions, including its rules on agency rates.
Local authority-maintained schools can also use RM6376. However, the academy trust mandate does not apply to them in the same way.
Private (for-profit) schools cannot access this framework.
What should academy trusts do now?
School leaders and trust procurement teams should review their current supply arrangements. Start by checking:
- Which education recruitment agencies you currently use
- Whether those agencies are approved under RM6376
- Your expected agency staffing spend
- Existing contracts and their expiry dates
- The teaching and support roles you regularly need
- Who can approve and sign framework agreements
Existing contracts do not automatically need to end. However, trusts should review their compliance and compare arrangements before renewing or making changes.
For full details, read the Department for Education guidance on the supply staff mandate.
What Are the Benefits of the GCA Supply Teachers Framework?
The RM6376 framework aims to make education recruitment more transparent and cost-effective.
1. Clearer supply agency costs
Schools can review agreed supplier fees before appointing an agency. The framework places limits on supplier fees. These are the charges agencies receive for providing their recruitment services.
Importantly, the framework does not cap supply teacher pay. Worker pay, employment costs and the supplier fee are separate elements of the overall charge.
2. Access to approved education recruitment agencies
Schools can select from agencies approved under the framework. This helps procurement teams assess suppliers using an established purchasing route. Schools should still check that an agency can meet their particular staffing needs.
3. More control over recruitment spending
Transparent charges make it easier to compare agency costs and plan staffing budgets. Schools can also review recurring staffing requirements and identify opportunities to improve workforce planning.
4. Flexible staffing arrangements
Schools can use the framework for day-to-day cover, longer assignments and permanent appointments through agencies. This supports both unexpected absence and planned recruitment.
5. Clearer temporary-to-permanent arrangements
The framework includes provisions that can allow schools to appoint eligible temporary staff permanently without a transfer fee after 12 weeks, subject to the required notice and contractual conditions.
This may help schools develop longer-term staffing solutions while giving educators opportunities to progress.
How Does the RM6376 Framework Work?
The framework offers two main ways to recruit education staff.
Lot 1: Working directly with supply agencies
Lot 1 allows schools and trusts to work directly with one or more approved recruitment agencies.
Schools choose their suppliers, set up the required agreements and contact those agencies when they need staff.
There is no minimum spending commitment under Lot 1.
Milk Education is an approved Lot 1 supplier. This means eligible schools can choose to work directly with us through the RM6376 framework.
Lot 2: Managed service provision
Lot 2 allows schools and trusts to appoint a managed service provider.
The provider coordinates recruitment and may work with other agencies to meet staffing requirements.
This approach may suit organisations that want one provider to oversee staffing across several schools.
For schools that prefer a direct relationship with their education recruitment agency, Lot 1 may be the best option.
How to Use the GCA Framework With Milk Education
Schools can establish a Lot 1 recruitment agreement with Milk Education by following the framework process.
Step 1: Check Milk Education’s framework status
Milk Education Ltd is listed as an approved supplier under Lot 1 of RM6376.
You can confirm supplier status and review framework information through the official GCA supplier list and agency selection tools.
Step 2: Discuss your school’s staffing needs
Tell our team about the roles you need, your school environment and your recruitment priorities.
These may include daily supply cover, long-term teachers, SEND support, teaching assistants or permanent recruitment.
We take time to understand your school before recommending educators.
Step 3: Complete the framework order form
For a standard Lot 1 agreement, the GCA short order form is commonly used.
Milk Education can help your team understand the relevant onboarding information and agreement process.
Once the correct framework documents have been completed and signed by both parties, the call-off agreement can be established.
More complex requirements may need the full framework order form. Always use the latest official GCA documentation.
Step 4: Request staff when you need them
Once your agreement is active, you can contact Milk Education about available teaching and support staff.
You do not need to complete a new framework order form for every individual booking covered by the agreement.
Need help getting started? Contact Milk Education to discuss your staffing requirements and the RM6376 onboarding process.
Why Choose Milk Education as Your GCA Supply Agency?
Choosing an approved agency is an important first step. However, schools also need educators who suit their pupils, expectations and working environment.
Milk Education combines specialist recruitment support with a practical understanding of school staffing.
Safeguarding and compliance come first
Schools must have confidence in the people working with their pupils.
Milk Education uses an eight-stage candidate process, including identity checks, relevant DBS checks, references, compliance reviews and ongoing professional development.
Our approach aligns with relevant Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance. Milk Education also holds APSCo Compliance+ accreditation.
Educators prepared for your school
We believe effective recruitment starts with understanding the school, not simply matching a job title.
Our Your School Ready approach helps educators understand school routines, expectations, safeguarding arrangements and the pupils they will support.
This can help staff arrive more prepared for their assignments.
Consistency through Familiar Faces
Repeatedly introducing new supply staff can create additional work for school teams.
Milk Education’s Familiar Faces approach focuses on building relationships with educators who have already worked successfully in a school.
Where availability allows, we can prioritise suitable returning staff. This helps schools work towards greater familiarity and continuity.
Recruitment support beyond filling vacancies
We also help schools think about workforce planning, recruitment costs and longer-term staffing needs.
Our wider services include recruitment insights, candidate development and school enrichment initiatives.
Find out more about Milk Education’s staffing services for schools and academy trusts.
Beyond Recruitment: Unbottled, Powered by Milk Education
At Milk Education, we believe strong school partnerships should create a positive impact beyond staffing.
That’s why we’re proud to power Unbottled, an education initiative bringing real-life experiences and expert-led learning into schools.
Unbottled helps schools address challenging topics, strengthen personal development and support pupils as they navigate the world around them.
It connects lived-experience voices with structured education, giving pupils opportunities to learn from people who have experienced the issues being discussed.
Unbottled Live: Real stories with real impact
Unbottled Live brings lived-experience speakers into educational settings to share powerful stories and encourage meaningful conversations.
Schools can explore:
- Assemblies delivered by lived-experience speakers
- Interactive pupil workshops
- Personal development and enrichment sessions
- Learning about knife crime, bullying and exploitation
- Discussions around mental health, relationships and wellbeing
- Support with sensitive topics affecting young people
These sessions give schools another way to engage pupils with important issues while complementing their wider personal development work.
Unbottled Online: PSHE resources brought to life
Unbottled Online is a developing learning platform designed to support high-risk PSHE teaching at Key Stages 3 and 4.
The platform combines lived-experience videos with structured learning activities, teacher guidance and safeguarding-focused resources.
Topics include:
- Knife crime and youth violence
- Mental health and wellbeing
- Healthy relationships and consent
- Exploitation and county lines
- Drugs, vaping and risk
- Bullying and online safety
- Equality, inclusion and anti-racism
- Financial wellbeing
The resources are designed to help teachers deliver sensitive topics with greater confidence and consistent support.
Unbottled Online is scheduled to launch in January 2027. Schools can request a demonstration or join the waiting list for early access.
Supporting the whole school community
Recruitment is only one part of creating a successful school environment.
Through Milk Education and Unbottled, schools can explore support for staffing, personal development and pupil enrichment.
For academy trusts, Unbottled also offers the opportunity to consider a more consistent approach to sensitive-topic learning across multiple schools.
Unbottled programmes are separate from recruitment services purchased under the GCA RM6376 framework. Availability and commercial arrangements should be discussed directly.
Want to create more impact beyond recruitment? Explore Unbottled, powered by Milk Education, to learn about lived-experience speakers, school enrichment and upcoming PSHE resources.
What Does the GCA Framework Mean for Supply Teachers?
The GCA framework mainly changes how schools purchase recruitment services. It does not replace the normal process of applying for supply teaching jobs.
Teachers can continue registering with education recruitment agencies and exploring suitable opportunities.
The Department for Education states that the framework’s agency fee caps should not reduce supply staff pay or conditions.
For teachers considering supply work, choosing the right agency remains important. Look for an agency that offers:
- Clear information about pay and assignments
- Work that suits your availability
- Guidance about school expectations
- Safeguarding and compliance support
- Professional development opportunities
- Support throughout your placements
Find supply teaching jobs with Milk Education
Milk Education supports qualified teachers seeking flexible daily supply work, longer placements and career progression.
Our consultants aim to match educators with opportunities suited to their experience, preferences and goals.
Whether you are an experienced teacher or exploring supply for the first time, we can discuss your options.
Explore the latest supply teaching jobs or register with Milk Education.
What Does RM6376 Mean for Teaching Assistants and Support Staff?
The framework covers more than qualified teachers.
Schools can also use approved agencies to recruit teaching assistants, cover supervisors and specialist support staff.
For candidates, this means education recruitment agencies remain an important route into school-based work.
Milk Education supports people seeking roles such as:
- Teaching assistant
- SEND teaching assistant
- Learning support assistant
- Cover supervisor
- Pastoral support worker
- Behaviour support assistant
- School administrator
Some roles require specific qualifications or experience. Others may suit applicants with relevant transferable skills.
Our consultants can help you understand available positions, candidate requirements and the registration process.
Looking for your next education role? Register to work with Milk Education and speak to our recruitment team.
How Can Schools Make the Most of the GCA Framework?
The framework offers a structured route to recruitment. However, effective staffing still depends on good planning and strong agency relationships.
Schools can improve their approach by taking five practical steps.
- Review recruitment costs. Understand worker pay, employment costs and supplier fees.
- Plan ahead. Identify recurring cover needs and upcoming staffing changes.
- Prioritise suitable educators. Consider experience, safeguarding and school-specific requirements.
- Build continuity. Where possible, request educators who already know your school.
- Review performance. Share feedback with your agency to improve future placements.
Milk Education supports this approach through its school relationships, candidate preparation and ongoing communication.
The aim is to help schools make informed recruitment decisions while supporting teachers, support staff and pupils.
GCA Supply Teachers Framework: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the GCA supply teachers framework?
The GCA supply teachers framework is a government procurement agreement called RM6376. It allows eligible schools and trusts to recruit temporary, fixed-term and permanent education staff through approved agencies under agreed terms.
Is the GCA supply teachers framework mandatory?
From September 2026, academy trusts in England must use the GCA framework for agency supply staffing unless they follow a permitted alternative procurement route. Local authority schools can also use the framework, but the academy trust mandate does not apply to them in the same way.
Is Milk Education an approved GCA framework supplier?
Yes. Milk Education Ltd is an approved supplier under Lot 1 of the GCA RM6376 Supply Teachers and Education Recruitment framework. Eligible schools can work directly with Milk Education through a compliant framework agreement.
How do schools complete the RM6376 short order form?
Schools choose an approved Lot 1 agency and complete the relevant GCA order form with the required contract information. Both parties must sign the agreement. Schools should use the latest official GCA form, as some requirements need the full order form.
Does the GCA framework affect supply teacher pay?
The framework caps agency supplier fees, not supply teacher pay. The Department for Education states that the framework should not reduce supply staff pay or conditions. Worker pay and employment costs are separate from the agency supplier fee.
Can teaching assistants find jobs through GCA-approved agencies?
Yes. The GCA framework covers teaching assistants, SEND support staff, cover supervisors and other education roles. Candidates can register directly with an education recruitment agency such as Milk Education to explore suitable vacancies.
Work With Milk Education Through the GCA Framework
The GCA supply teachers framework gives schools a clearer way to purchase education recruitment services. With the right recruitment partner, it can also support better staffing decisions and more consistent classroom support.
Milk Education is proud to be an approved Lot 1 supplier under RM6376. We help schools find suitable educators and support teachers and support staff in finding rewarding work.
Through Unbottled, powered by Milk Education, we also support schools looking to strengthen personal development, enrichment and pupil wellbeing.
For schools and academy trusts
Need supply teachers, teaching assistants or specialist support staff? Speak to Milk Education about your staffing priorities, framework onboarding and available recruitment support.
Contact Milk Education to discuss your school’s staffing needs.
For school enrichment and personal development
Want to bring real-life experiences into the classroom? Discover how Unbottled can support assemblies, workshops and engaging personal development learning.
Discover Unbottled, powered by Milk Education.
For teachers and education support staff
Looking for flexible supply teaching jobs, teaching assistant vacancies or your next long-term role? Our team can help you explore opportunities that match your experience and ambitions.
