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- Tasks: Teach Functional Skills in Maths and English, providing one-on-one support to learners.
- Company: Join Novus, a leading provider of prison education with over 30 years of experience.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, holiday pay, pension contributions, and retail discounts.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in learners' lives while working in a supportive and inclusive environment.
- Qualifications: Teaching qualification or relevant experience in teaching Functional Skills Maths and English required.
- Other info: Flexible hours and support for further qualifications available.
Are you passionate about making a real difference in the lives of Learners? We’re looking for an enthusiastic and dedicated Functional Skills Cover Teacher in Maths and/or English to join our team! If you’re driven by helping others reach their full potential, providing one-on-one support, and creating an inclusive, nurturing environment, this is your chance to be part of something truly rewarding. Bring your compassion, creativity, and commitment to support our students in their learning journey and empower them to succeed!
We have a great opportunity available to join Novus, our prison education provider at HMP Swinfen Hall, working as a Functional Skills Cover Teacher (Maths/English). This position is offered on a permanent, ad-hoc basis.
Who are Novus? Novus are a leading provider of prison education and have been supporting men, women, and children of all ages for over 30 years across the UK to take new directions. We are currently rated “Good” by Ofsted and have partnerships with over 1000 industry and employer partners to ensure our learners secure their place as the movers and shakers of the future. Our business is growing year on year due to our continued success as a leading provider in prison education.
Site Information: HMP/YOI Swinfen Hall is a category C prison for young adult and adult men located near the village of Swinfen in Staffordshire. The key aim of the prison is to provide education, vocational training, and comprehensive support services. The main aim of the prison is to prepare inmates for a successful reintegration into society.
Role Responsibilities: Please see the attached role profile for an overview of general role responsibilities. Specific details pertaining to the nature of the role are shared during the interview process.
Skills, Qualifications and Experience: To be successful in this role, you will need:
- Teaching qualification and where applicable, relevant subject specialist qualification - with a commitment to obtain the outstanding qualification within 12 months
- Level 2 qualification in Literacy and Numeracy at a minimum
- Hold Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)/ Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) or commit to work towards within a specified timeframe (Applies to Teachers in YOI only)
We will also consider applications from candidates who do not currently have a teaching qualification, but who have demonstrable skills, existing experience and/or a suitable attitude/approach for teaching Functional Skills Maths and English to our learners. Funding and support toward completion of qualifications while in-post is available in some circumstances. Available support includes:
- Designated on-site mentor assigned for coaching and support.
- Support toward achievement of a Teaching qualification within agreed timescales.
- L5 Subject specialisms programmes are available for candidates who wish to specialise in English or Maths.
Benefits: Holiday pay is included within your hourly pay rate and is equal to 12.07% of your base hourly pay rate. Significant Pension contributions, Retail Discounts, Employee Assistance Program, Cycle to work scheme.
Safeguarding: The LTE Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All applicants will be required to undergo an appropriate DBS check via the Criminal Records Bureau and may be subject to additional online checks as part of our pre-screening process. Some roles are exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and would require an Enhanced DBS check.
Equal Opportunities Statement: Novus is committed to providing an environment where everyone is valued as an individual and where learners and colleagues can work, learn, flourish and develop their skills and knowledge in an atmosphere of dignity and respect. We are committed to working in an inclusive way with all the communities in which we are geographically located and to developing a workforce and learner community that reflects the UK's rich diversity and vibrancy.
The closing date for this job advert is 21/07/2025. However, sometimes the job advert may close early if we receive a good response!
Functional Skills Cover Teacher employer: LTE Group
Contact Detail:
LTE Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Functional Skills Cover Teacher
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of learners in a prison education setting. Understanding the unique challenges they face can help you tailor your approach and demonstrate your commitment to making a difference during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former educators in similar roles. They can provide valuable insights into the day-to-day responsibilities and expectations, which can help you prepare for potential interview questions.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase any relevant experience you have in teaching or mentoring, especially in challenging environments. Highlighting your adaptability and resilience can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Novus and their educational philosophy. Being able to articulate how your values align with theirs during the interview will demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and the organisation.
We think you need these skills to ace Functional Skills Cover Teacher
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of a Functional Skills Cover Teacher. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with what Novus is looking for.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Make sure to emphasise any teaching qualifications you possess, such as QTS or QTLS, and mention your commitment to obtaining any outstanding qualifications if applicable. If you lack formal qualifications, focus on your demonstrable skills and experience in teaching Functional Skills.
Craft a Compelling Personal Statement: Write a personal statement that showcases your passion for education and your dedication to helping learners succeed. Use specific examples from your past experiences to illustrate your commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in a teaching role.
How to prepare for a job interview at LTE Group
✨Show Your Passion for Education
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for teaching and helping learners succeed. Share specific examples of how you've made a difference in students' lives, especially in challenging environments.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Discuss any previous experience you have in teaching Functional Skills, particularly in Maths and English. If you have worked in similar settings, such as prison education or with diverse learner groups, be sure to mention that.
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Professional Development
Since the role requires a teaching qualification, talk about your willingness to pursue further qualifications if you don't already have them. Mention any relevant training or courses you've completed that relate to teaching or education.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to handle various classroom situations, especially those unique to a prison environment. Think about how you would create an inclusive and supportive learning atmosphere for all students.
