Cover Supervisor

Randstad UK; Preston; On-site; GBP 17,000 - 24,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

PAYE rates directly

REX vouchers for referrals

Dedicated consultant support

Online safeguarding courses

Job summary

Randstad UK is seeking a Cover Supervisor to supervise classes in a secondary school setting in Preston, Lancashire. You will manage behaviour, deliver pre-set work, and maintain a productive learning environment when teachers are absent.

This role does not require lesson planning or marking. You should have strong presence, clear communication, adaptability, and eligibility to work in the UK with an enhanced DBS (or willingness to obtain one).

Qualifications

• Eligibility and right to work in the UK.
• Enhanced DBS check registered on the Update Service (or willingness to process a new one).

Responsibilities

• Overseeing secondary classes (KS3/KS4) in short-term absence of teaching staff.
• Delivering pre-set instructions, distributing work, and keeping pupils on-task.
• Managing classroom behaviour in line with school policy.
• Answering pupil queries and supporting independent learning.
• Collecting completed work and handing over notes for returning teachers.
• Upholding safeguarding, child protection and health & safety policies.

Skills

Classroom management

Verbal communication

Adaptability

Youth engagement

GCSE English/Maths

Education

GCSE English/Maths

Job description

Are you ready to take the next step in secondary education?

• Are you a confident, proactive individual looking to gain valuable classroom management experience in a secondary school?




• Can you command the room with authority and calm, maintaining high standards of pupil behaviour and engagement?




• Are you seeking a rewarding role supporting pupils across a variety of subjects without the responsibility of lesson planning or marking?

About the School

The school is a successful, community-led secondary academy dedicated to fostering a supportive, ambitious, and inclusive culture for all pupils. With high expectations underpinned by mutual respect, its staff community works collaboratively to encourage resilience, celebrate individuality, and maintain an inspiring atmosphere where every young person is motivated to achieve their best.

What is a Cover Supervisor? Role & Responsibilities

As a Cover Supervisor, your primary responsibility is to supervise classes and manage behaviour while pupils complete work set by an absent teacher. You do not need to be a subject specialist or plan lessons; your focus is on maintaining a productive learning environment. Key duties include:

• Overseeing secondary classes (Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4) in the short-term absence of teaching staff.




• Delivering pre-set instructions, distributing work, and ensuring pupils remain focused, purposeful, and on-task.




• Managing classroom behaviour positively and consistently in line with school behaviour policies.




• Answering pupil queries, supporting independent learning, and assisting with general enquiries.




• Collecting completed work, leaving clear and constructive handover notes for returning teachers, and maintaining a tidy classroom.




• Strictly upholding and championing all safeguarding, child protection, and health and safety policies.

Skills & Attributes

• Strong presence, confidence, and interpersonal skills to manage behaviour effectively.




• Excellent verbal communication and listening skills.




• Adaptability, resilience, and problem-solving abilities in a fast-paced school environment.




• Previous experience working with young people (e.g., as a teaching assistant, sports coach, youth worker, or graduate looking towards a PGCE) is highly desirable.




• Good standard of English and mathematics (GCSE Grade C / 4 or equivalent).

Essential Requirements

• Eligibility and right to work in the UK (valid UK passport, visa, or settlement status).




• An enhanced child workforce DBS check registered on the Update Service (or a willingness to process a new one through Randstad).

Why Choose Randstad?

• Transparent rates paid directly via PAYE with no umbrella company fees.




• Earn £300 worth of REX vouchers for every teacher or support staff member you successfully recommend (T&Cs apply).




• Direct, one-to-one support from an experienced consultant who understands Lancashire schools.




• Access to online courses covering safeguarding, classroom management, and SEN awareness.