How LuminEd connects schools
and supply staff - directly.
No agencies, no unnecessary steps. Here's exactly how the platform works for both schools and candidates.
From search to booked
A clear, fast process for finding and managing supply cover.
Process step
Get Access
School accounts are created by the LuminEd team. Contact us to get set up - it takes less than a day.
Process step
Search Verified Candidates
Log in and use filters to search supply staff by role, subject, key stage, location and availability.
Process step
Review Profiles and Costs
View candidate profiles including bio, experience, subjects, and day rate. See the full cost breakdown before you do anything.
Process step
Send a Cover Request
Select the dates and role, then send the request directly to the candidate. They receive it immediately.
Process step
Booking Confirmed
The candidate accepts and the booking is confirmed. You'll see it in your hiring pipeline.
Process step
Approve the Timesheet
The candidate submits their timesheet digitally through the platform. You review and approve it. Export to CSV for payroll.
From Registration to Paid
A flexible setup built around candidate control.
Candidate journey
Register as a User
Create a free* account.
Candidate journey
Build Your Profile
Add your roles, subjects, key stages, day rate, availability and travel radius. Upload a photo and write a short bio.
Candidate journey
Upload Verification Documents
Upload your DBS certificate, proof of identity, right to work evidence, and any relevant qualifications.
Candidate journey
Get Verified
LuminEd reviews your documents - typically within 3-5 working days. You'll be notified when your profile goes live.
Candidate journey
Receive Cover Requests
Schools can now find your profile and send cover requests directly to you. Review each one and accept or decline.
Candidate journey
Submit Timesheets and Get Paid
After each booking, submit your timesheet digitally through the platform. Once approved by the school, you are paid directly.
What Verification Covers
Every candidate profile on LuminEd is checked before going live.
DBS certificate verified
Every candidate must hold a valid DBS certificate. We check it before their profile goes live and track expiry so schools never see an out-of-date check.
Identity confirmed
Candidates upload photo ID - passport or driving licence - which is reviewed by the LuminEd team before approval.
Right to work in the UK
We verify that every candidate has the legal right to work in England, in line with UK employment law requirements.
Qualifications reviewed
Candidates can upload relevant qualifications and experience. Schools see what's been submitted so they can make informed decisions before sending a cover request.
Pricing - No Surprises
There are no subscription fees, no retainers, and no additional charges. Candidates are always free* to join.
Pricing example
Adjust the candidate day rate
Schools pay a 30% platform fee on top of the candidate's agreed day rate. Move the slider to see the total update instantly.
This is the candidate's agreed day rate before the platform fee is applied.
Candidate rate
£150
Platform fee
£45
Total cost to school
£195
The 30% platform fee covers access to the LuminEd platform, candidate verification, and digital timesheet management.
Frequently asked questions
How does LuminEd verify candidates?
Candidates must upload their DBS certificate, proof of identity, and right to work documents. LuminEd reviews these before any profile is made visible to schools - typically within 3-5 working days.
Can schools contact candidates before booking?
Yes. LuminEd includes a messaging feature so schools and candidates can communicate directly through the platform before confirming a booking.
Who handles payment to supply staff?
LuminEd pays candidates. LuminEd's 30% platform fee is charged on top of the candidate's day rate and covers platform access, document verification and timesheet management.
What happens if a candidate declines a cover request?
The school is notified and can search for another available candidate. There's no penalty for candidates declining work - they remain in control of their availability.
Can a school build a regular pool of supply staff?
Yes. Schools can save candidates, track bookings through the pipeline view, and build an ongoing list of supply staff who know their school well.
Still have Questions?
We're happy to walk you through the platform, help you get set up, or just answer a quick question. Get in touch and we'll get back to you within one working day.
* Joining LuminEd is free if you have a valid DBS certificate registered with the DBS Update Service. If you are not on the Update Service, a DBS check will be required before your profile can go live, and a fee will apply.