At a Glance
- Tasks: Supervise secondary classes, deliver pre-planned lessons, and support student engagement.
- Company: Protocol Education, a supportive organisation dedicated to education.
- Benefits: Flexible work schedule, free training, and ongoing support.
- Why this job: Gain real classroom experience while exploring teaching without prior qualifications.
- Qualifications: English degree or studying English; no previous teaching experience required.
- Other info: Opportunities for career growth and variety in school placements.
The predicted salary is between 13 - 16 £ per hour.
Are you an English student or graduate looking for a flexible, rewarding role that can work around other jobs or studies? Protocol Education is working with a number of secondary schools in and around Taunton, supporting them with reliable, day-to-day classroom cover. We’re currently recruiting English graduates to work as Unqualified Supply Teachers / Cover Supervisors, stepping in when teachers are absent and keeping learning on track.
This is a popular entry route into education for English graduates who want real classroom experience, confidence in front of pupils, and a chance to explore teaching before committing to further training. You do not need previous school experience, teaching qualifications or specialist training. We provide all required training free of charge, alongside ongoing support once you’re working in schools. The ability to drive and access to a car is advantageous to expand your school connections.
What is the role?
- Supervise secondary classes in the absence of the class teacher
- Deliver pre-planned lessons and set work (no planning required)
- Support reading, writing and comprehension-based tasks across subjects
- Maintain a calm, positive and focused learning environment
- Follow school behaviour policies and routines
You are not expected to teach new content. Your role is to confidently lead the room, explain tasks clearly, and help pupils engage with the work that has already been set.
Working pattern
- Flexible work from 2 to 5 days per week
- Supply opportunities ranging from short-term to ongoing cover
- A mix of emergency and pre-booked work, depending on availability
- Opportunities to work across a range of secondary schools
- Schools matched to your preferred locations wherever possible
This role suits graduates who want variety, flexibility and experience, whether alongside other work, further study or future teaching plans.
Why this role works well for English graduates
English graduates often thrive in this role thanks to strengths in:
- Clear communication and explanation
- Confidence speaking in front of groups
- Supporting literacy, reading and written work
- Building quick rapport with young people
- Thinking on your feet and adapting quickly
If you’re calm, articulate, reliable and keen to learn, schools genuinely value what you bring.
Our Free Training
- Thrive Approach: Learn how to understand behaviour, build relationships and support emotional wellbeing.
- Team Teach: Positive behaviour and de-escalation strategies to keep everyone calm and safe.
- Trauma-Informed Practices: Practical tools for supporting pupils who have experienced adversity.
- Cover Supervisor Training: A hands-on guide to leading classes, managing behaviour and delivering pre-set work confidently.
What do we need to clear you
- Passport
- 2 proofs of address (e.g. driving license, utility bill, council tax, P45/60)
- CV covering 10 years of all work/education, with gaps accounted for
- 2 years of references (including childcare if applicable)
- OSCP if you lived overseas for 3 months or more in the last 5 years
All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQs on the Protocol Education website for further details. All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available at a later date.
Protocol Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with the DfE statutory guidance ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’, this may also include an online search as part of our due diligence on shortlisted applicants. We offer FREE online safeguarding and Prevent Duty training to all our workers. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and subscribe to the DBS Update Service. Full assistance provided. For details of our privacy policy, please see visit the Protocol Education website.
English Grads and Students - Become an Unqualified Supply Teacher in Taunton employer: Protocol Education Ltd
Contact Detail:
Protocol Education Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land English Grads and Students - Become an Unqualified Supply Teacher in Taunton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your university's alumni or local education groups. They might have insider info on schools looking for supply teachers, and a friendly chat can go a long way in landing that role.
✨Tip Number 2
Get your game face on for interviews! Practice common questions and think about how your English skills can shine in the classroom. Remember, confidence is key, so show them you’re ready to step in and lead!
✨Tip Number 3
Flexibility is your best friend! Be open to different types of roles and locations. The more adaptable you are, the more opportunities will come your way. Plus, it’s a great way to explore various schools and find your perfect fit.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s super easy and gives you access to all the latest opportunities. Plus, we’re here to support you every step of the way, so let’s get you into that classroom!
We think you need these skills to ace English Grads and Students - Become an Unqualified Supply Teacher in Taunton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your strengths in communication and any relevant experience, even if it’s not teaching-related. We want to see how your skills as an English student or graduate can shine in a classroom setting!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to show us your personality! Share why you’re interested in becoming a supply teacher and how your background in English makes you a great fit for the role. Keep it engaging and genuine!
Be Clear and Concise: When filling out your application, keep your answers straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure you communicate your thoughts effectively without unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, make sure to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and get you started on this exciting journey into education!
How to prepare for a job interview at Protocol Education Ltd
✨Know Your Role
Make sure you understand what being an Unqualified Supply Teacher entails. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities, like supervising classes and delivering pre-planned lessons. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Highlight your strengths in communication and rapport-building during the interview. Think of examples from your studies or any relevant experiences where you've successfully engaged with others. This will demonstrate your suitability for the role and your ability to connect with students.
✨Prepare for Behaviour Management Questions
Since maintaining a calm and focused learning environment is key, be ready to discuss how you'd handle classroom behaviour. Consider scenarios where you might need to de-escalate situations or keep students on task, and share your thoughts on effective strategies.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the training provided or the types of schools you'll be working with. This shows your enthusiasm for the position and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.