Discover what it's like to be a Cover Supervisor in a UK secondary school. Learn about daily duties, key skills, qualifications needed, and how to get started.
Are you currently a Teaching Assistant looking to progress?
Would you like to get a step closer to teaching your own class? If your answer is yes, then a role as a Cover Supervisor might be the perfect next step for you.
What Does a Cover Supervisor Do?
A Cover Supervisor manages a classroom when the usual teacher is absent. You'll make sure pupils complete work, stay on task, and behave appropriately. While every school is different, your day-to-day duties may include:
- Supervising pre-set work
- Managing classroom behaviour
- Supporting pupils with questions
- Handling minor issues or emergencies
- Collecting completed work
- Reporting behaviour and progress
What Won't You Be Expected To Do?
- Plan lessons
- Mark pupil work
- Set homework
- Have full subject knowledge
This makes the role ideal for someone exploring a future in teaching, without the full commitment to the workload just yet.
What Qualifications Do You Need?
Cover Supervisors often have:
- An Honours degree (or equivalent experience)
- 6+ months' classroom or youth work experience
- Confidence managing behaviour in a classroom
Lecturing experience, PGCE study, or time as a Teaching Assistant are all beneficial.
👉 Browse our current Cover Supervisor vacancies
What Skills Make a Great Cover Supervisor?
To succeed as a Cover Supervisor, you'll need:
- Strong behaviour management
- Flexibility (no fixed timetable)
- Confidence and resilience
- Good communication and teamwork
You'll work closely with pupils and school staff - so being adaptable and calm under pressure is key.
Ready To Start Your Cover Supervisor Journey?
Working as a Cover Supervisor is a fantastic way to gain classroom experience, boost your income, and move closer to a career in teaching. It's flexible, rewarding, and plays a crucial role in supporting students' education.
Register your interest in Cover Supervisor roles now!
