Job description

Lead Teaching Assistant – Cover
Contract Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Start Date: September 2025

Are you an experienced and confident Teaching Assistant looking to step into a leadership role? GSL Education is proud to be working with a forward-thinking secondary school in Portsmouth to recruit a Lead Teaching Assistant for Cover to start this September.

As a Lead TA, you’ll play a crucial role in supporting classroom cover across the school while helping to lead a team of Teaching Assistants and ensuring consistency and high standards in lesson delivery. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who enjoys variety, thrives in a busy school environment, and is passionate about supporting students' learning and development.

The Role:

  • Deliver pre-prepared lessons across a range of subjects when teachers are absent.
  • Lead and support the team of Cover Teaching Assistants, ensuring cover lessons are effectively delivered.
  • Work closely with the Cover Manager and leadership team to ensure smooth day-to-day operation of cover arrangements.
  • Offer guidance and support to less experienced TAs within the team.
  • Maintain a positive learning environment and promote high expectations of behaviour and engagement.

The Ideal Candidate:

  • Previous experience as a Teaching Assistant or Cover Supervisor in a secondary school setting.
  • Strong classroom management and communication skills.
  • Confident delivering learning to whole classes.
  • A calm, proactive and resilient approach to supporting students and staff.
  • A desire to take the next step in your career with leadership responsibilities.

What GSL Education Offers:

  • A dedicated and experienced consultant to support you throughout the entire process from your application to interview preparation and securing the role.
  • Long-term opportunities with schools that align with your teaching style and career goals.
  • Competitive pay in line with experience and responsibilities.
  • A commitment to matching you with the right school for longevity and job satisfaction.

If you're ready to take the next step in your education career and want to make a lasting impact, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today or contact GSL Education for a confidential discussion about the role. Let our experienced consultants guide you through every step of the process.