Cover supervisors are suitably-trained support staff who supervise pupils carrying out pre-prepared exercises when teaching staff are on short-term absence.
Cover supervisors look after a whole class of children and conduct pre-planned lessons for teachers that are absent, providing guidance, advice and classroom management.
The role may vary depending on whether the role is undertaken in a primary, secondary or special school.
Day-to-day tasks could include:
- supervising work that has been set in accordance with the school policy
- managing the behaviour of pupils whilst they are undertaking this work to ensure a constructive environment
- responding to any questions from pupils about process and procedures
- dealing with any immediate problems or emergencies according to the school’s policies and procedures
- collecting any completed work after the lesson and returning it to the appropriate teacher, and
- reporting back as appropriate using the school’s agreed referral procedures on the behaviour of pupils during the class, and any issues arising.
What skills for do I need?
- good communication skills
- be highly flexible
- enjoy working with young people.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
The National Joint Council (NJC) guidance suggests that the appropriate grade for this role should be at level 3 in a four-level career structure.
Qualification Training offered by the School Workforce Development Team
Support Work in Schools (SWiS). Please see the link below
To find out about qualification training available with other providers, see our qualifications database
Short Courses offered by the School Workforce Development Team
The School Workforce Development Team offer a range of courses suitable for Cover Supervisors including a 2 day course on the roles and responsibilities of Cover Supervisors
To see the range of courses we provide download our course brochure