Cover Manager at Worthing High School
Cover Manager
Worthing High School Recruitment Pack
July 2026
Welcome
Thank you for your interest in joining South Downs Education Trust. As a cross-phase multi-academy trust based in the heart of West Sussex, we are proud to offer a unique blend of pastoral care and high-quality, inclusive education.
We believe every child and young person reaches their full potential - regardless of their starting point. Our core values guide everything we do:
We are excited to welcome passionate and dedicated professionals who share our vision and values. Whether you are at the start of your career or looking for your next challenge, South Downs Education Trust offers a supportive, ambitious, and collaborative environment where you can truly thrive.
We look forward to the possibility of welcoming you to our team.
Warm regards
Pan Panayiotou
Chief Executive Officer South Downs Education Trust
About us South Downs Education Trust (SDET) is a dynamic and growing Multi-Academy Trust (MAT) committed to delivering exceptional educational outcomes across our schools.
Currently comprising two schools, we have ambitious plans to expand by incorporating at least two additional schools in the near future. We are seeking a skilled and proactive People Manager to drive our people strategy and support our growth.
Community – By working as one, we share expertise and achieve more for our
schools. Resilience – We prioritise the wellbeing of students and staff, fostering a culture of
care, balance, and strength. Integrity – We act with honesty and stay true to our values in all that we do. Respect – We celebrate individuality and encourage everyone to bring their unique
strengths and perspectives. Excellence – We are committed to delivering the very highest standards in
education.
Welcome
Thank you for your interest in joining Worthing High School. As Headteacher, I am proud to lead a vibrant, inclusive and ambitious community where every student is supported to achieve their very best.
At Worthing High School, we believe in high standards, mutual respect and a relentless focus on both academic excellence and personal development. Our dedicated staff team works collaboratively to provide a rich curriculum, a wide range of opportunities beyond the classroom and a culture where wellbeing is valued for both students and colleagues alike.
We are a school rooted in strong values: Community, Resilience, Integrity, Respect and Excellence and these principles guide everything we do. We are committed to developing both our students and our staff, offering professional growth, trust and the chance to make a lasting impact.
I hope this pack gives you a clear sense of our vision and ethos. We look forward to welcoming talented, motivated professionals who share our commitment to making Worthing High School the very best it can be for every student.
Warm regards
Adrian Cook
Headteacher
Worthing High School
Job description
Job title
Salary
Location
Contract
Accountability
Cover Manager – Part time
Grade 6 point 9 - Actual salary: £15,865.11
[£27,254 FTE/Full year]
Worthing High School
Permanent - Part-time position - 7 am – 12 noon - 25 hours per week - Monday to Friday 39 weeks per year (Term time only) Flexible working will be considered.
Reports to the SLT line manager
Role description
To be responsible for, and in liaison with the SLT line manager, ensuring lessons are covered daily due to staff sickness or other absence. Taking calls from staff and recording reasons for absence on the Trust’s MIS (SIMS and Every). Managing supply staff logistics within agreed budget limits.
Qualifications and Experience
Educated to GCSE Standard (A*-C) or equivalent, including English and Maths
Skills, Knowledge and Experience
Proven organisational and time-management skills High level of accuracy and attention to detail Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet deadlines Ability to manage confidential information appropriately Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Office, specifically Google, Outlook, Word
and Excel Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
For an initial discussion or for further information, please contact Elena Elsam, Director of People on eelsam@sdetrust.net
mailto:eelsam@sdetrust.net
Key Responsibilities
The key responsibilities for the role are detailed below, and in addition the role
will include other reasonable duties as determined by the Headteacher.
1. Daily Operations
Operate and manage an organised cover system daily to ensure all lessons
for absent teachers and departments are covered. 7am cut off for staff to
call in. Liaise with Cover Supervisor team, allocating work to the team, and
arranging for supply teachers to come in if necessary. Monitor to check
completion of tasks. Ensure cover work is present in the correct folders and liaise with Heads of
Department to resolve any issues. Set cover work as necessary. Arrange and provide a morning briefing for external supply teachers,
including signing them in, ID checks, agreed training, and providing
relevant SIMS and IT network access. Ensure emergency cover contingency is arranged for non-working hours
2. Strategic and Administrative Responsibilities
Maintain daily dialogue with the Director of People regarding staff absences
to ensure accurate reporting and share staff welfare concerns for early
intervention and support. Organise statutory and paid duties in line with directives from the Deputy
Head. Organise staff supervision for mock and formal exams. Liaise with trip leaders and EVC to ensure staffing, including staff ratio and
first aid cover, is within trip regulations. Liaise with subject leads for moderation days. Manage lunch duty cover and room bookings. Process and secure approval for planned absence application forms with the
line manager, SLT, and Head Teacher. Utilise SIMS and Every systems for managing external staff details (supply)
and organising planned absences. Review supply costs to maintain them at a minimum. Organising Focus days (with SLT lead)
3. Team and Relationship Management
Develop and maintain good relationships with colleagues at all times Maintain strict confidentiality at all times regarding staff welfare concerns
and other sensitive information
Person Specification
Personal Qualities
Good interpersonal and communication skills Proactive and helpful attitude towards staff, students and parents Attention to detail and accuracy Self-motivated Reliable, punctual, and committed to high standards of work.
Values and Professional Conduct
Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion. Respect for confidentiality and professional boundaries. Alignment with the school’s ethos and values. Willingness to engage in training and continuous development. Commitment to providing excellent service to pupils, families, and other staff.
What We Offer
A collaborative and supportive working environment, with access to senior
leadership and decision-making processes. The chance to make a lasting impact on the lives of staff and students. Competitive salary package and benefits aligned with sector standards. The chance to work in a DfE Attendance and Behaviour Hub Lead school.
Benefits
A friendly and supportive environment. The opportunity to work with well-motivated students and supportive parents and
staff. A location on the coast very close to main line railway services and road networks. Free well-being and medical support cover. The opportunity to be part of the South Downs Education Trust MAT. Free use of our fitness suite.
How to apply
If you feel you have the necessary skills for this position and would like further information, an application form and job description can be downloaded from the links provided on the school website at https://www.worthinghigh.net/join-us/careers
Completed application forms should be sent to Mr Adrian Cook, Headteacher at
Worthing High School at vacancies@sdetrust.net by Monday 13 July 2026 at 9 am.
Interview dates will be provided to shortlisted candidates.
NOTE FOR RECRUITMENT AGENCIES: We prefer to hire people directly but we do have a preferred supplier list for
when we need a helping hand. We will be in touch if we need you.
Please note, because of the nature of this job, if you are successful in your application, you will be subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service with barred list check. This will be done by means of applying for a DBS certificate through the Disclosure and Barring Service. Disclosures include details of cautions, reprimands or final warnings as well as convictions, spent or unspent. Clearance will be obtained before employment commences. We will also complete media searches as part of due diligence and safeguarding checks in line with KCSIE guidance.
• South Downs Education Trust (SDET) is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and
young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
• Worthing High School & Clapham and Patching C of E Primary school are part of SDET, which is an academy
trust and a charitable company limited by guarantee and registered in England and Wales with company number 8276210. The Registered Office is at: South Farm Road, Worthing, West Sussex BN14 7AR
• We recognise continuous service from academy/non-academy schools
https://www.worthinghigh.net/join-us/careers mailto:vacancies@sdetrust.net
Cover Manager
Worthing High School Recruitment Pack
July 2026
Welcome
Thank you for your interest in joining South Downs Education Trust. As a cross-phase multi-academy trust based in the heart of West Sussex, we are proud to offer a unique blend of pastoral care and high-quality, inclusive education.
We believe every child and young person reaches their full potential - regardless of their starting point. Our core values guide everything we do:
We are excited to welcome passionate and dedicated professionals who share our vision and values. Whether you are at the start of your career or looking for your next challenge, South Downs Education Trust offers a supportive, ambitious, and collaborative environment where you can truly thrive.
We look forward to the possibility of welcoming you to our team.
Warm regards
Pan Panayiotou
Chief Executive Officer South Downs Education Trust
About us South Downs Education Trust (SDET) is a dynamic and growing Multi-Academy Trust (MAT) committed to delivering exceptional educational outcomes across our schools.
Currently comprising two schools, we have ambitious plans to expand by incorporating at least two additional schools in the near future. We are seeking a skilled and proactive People Manager to drive our people strategy and support our growth.
Community – By working as one, we share expertise and achieve more for our
schools. Resilience – We prioritise the wellbeing of students and staff, fostering a culture of
care, balance, and strength. Integrity – We act with honesty and stay true to our values in all that we do. Respect – We celebrate individuality and encourage everyone to bring their unique
strengths and perspectives. Excellence – We are committed to delivering the very highest standards in
education.
Welcome
Thank you for your interest in joining Worthing High School. As Headteacher, I am proud to lead a vibrant, inclusive and ambitious community where every student is supported to achieve their very best.
At Worthing High School, we believe in high standards, mutual respect and a relentless focus on both academic excellence and personal development. Our dedicated staff team works collaboratively to provide a rich curriculum, a wide range of opportunities beyond the classroom and a culture where wellbeing is valued for both students and colleagues alike.
We are a school rooted in strong values: Community, Resilience, Integrity, Respect and Excellence and these principles guide everything we do. We are committed to developing both our students and our staff, offering professional growth, trust and the chance to make a lasting impact.
I hope this pack gives you a clear sense of our vision and ethos. We look forward to welcoming talented, motivated professionals who share our commitment to making Worthing High School the very best it can be for every student.
Warm regards
Adrian Cook
Headteacher
Worthing High School
Job description
Job title
Salary
Location
Contract
Accountability
Cover Manager – Part time
Grade 6 point 9 - Actual salary: £15,865.11
[£27,254 FTE/Full year]
Worthing High School
Permanent - Part-time position - 7 am – 12 noon - 25 hours per week - Monday to Friday 39 weeks per year (Term time only) Flexible working will be considered.
Reports to the SLT line manager
Role description
To be responsible for, and in liaison with the SLT line manager, ensuring lessons are covered daily due to staff sickness or other absence. Taking calls from staff and recording reasons for absence on the Trust’s MIS (SIMS and Every). Managing supply staff logistics within agreed budget limits.
Qualifications and Experience
Educated to GCSE Standard (A*-C) or equivalent, including English and Maths
Skills, Knowledge and Experience
Proven organisational and time-management skills High level of accuracy and attention to detail Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet deadlines Ability to manage confidential information appropriately Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Office, specifically Google, Outlook, Word
and Excel Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
For an initial discussion or for further information, please contact Elena Elsam, Director of People on eelsam@sdetrust.net
mailto:eelsam@sdetrust.net
Key Responsibilities
The key responsibilities for the role are detailed below, and in addition the role
will include other reasonable duties as determined by the Headteacher.
1. Daily Operations
Operate and manage an organised cover system daily to ensure all lessons
for absent teachers and departments are covered. 7am cut off for staff to
call in. Liaise with Cover Supervisor team, allocating work to the team, and
arranging for supply teachers to come in if necessary. Monitor to check
completion of tasks. Ensure cover work is present in the correct folders and liaise with Heads of
Department to resolve any issues. Set cover work as necessary. Arrange and provide a morning briefing for external supply teachers,
including signing them in, ID checks, agreed training, and providing
relevant SIMS and IT network access. Ensure emergency cover contingency is arranged for non-working hours
2. Strategic and Administrative Responsibilities
Maintain daily dialogue with the Director of People regarding staff absences
to ensure accurate reporting and share staff welfare concerns for early
intervention and support. Organise statutory and paid duties in line with directives from the Deputy
Head. Organise staff supervision for mock and formal exams. Liaise with trip leaders and EVC to ensure staffing, including staff ratio and
first aid cover, is within trip regulations. Liaise with subject leads for moderation days. Manage lunch duty cover and room bookings. Process and secure approval for planned absence application forms with the
line manager, SLT, and Head Teacher. Utilise SIMS and Every systems for managing external staff details (supply)
and organising planned absences. Review supply costs to maintain them at a minimum. Organising Focus days (with SLT lead)
3. Team and Relationship Management
Develop and maintain good relationships with colleagues at all times Maintain strict confidentiality at all times regarding staff welfare concerns
and other sensitive information
Person Specification
Personal Qualities
Good interpersonal and communication skills Proactive and helpful attitude towards staff, students and parents Attention to detail and accuracy Self-motivated Reliable, punctual, and committed to high standards of work.
Values and Professional Conduct
Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion. Respect for confidentiality and professional boundaries. Alignment with the school’s ethos and values. Willingness to engage in training and continuous development. Commitment to providing excellent service to pupils, families, and other staff.
What We Offer
A collaborative and supportive working environment, with access to senior
leadership and decision-making processes. The chance to make a lasting impact on the lives of staff and students. Competitive salary package and benefits aligned with sector standards. The chance to work in a DfE Attendance and Behaviour Hub Lead school.
Benefits
A friendly and supportive environment. The opportunity to work with well-motivated students and supportive parents and
staff. A location on the coast very close to main line railway services and road networks. Free well-being and medical support cover. The opportunity to be part of the South Downs Education Trust MAT. Free use of our fitness suite.
How to apply
If you feel you have the necessary skills for this position and would like further information, an application form and job description can be downloaded from the links provided on the school website at https://www.worthinghigh.net/join-us/careers
Completed application forms should be sent to Mr Adrian Cook, Headteacher at
Worthing High School at vacancies@sdetrust.net by Monday 13 July 2026 at 9 am.
Interview dates will be provided to shortlisted candidates.
NOTE FOR RECRUITMENT AGENCIES: We prefer to hire people directly but we do have a preferred supplier list for
when we need a helping hand. We will be in touch if we need you.
Please note, because of the nature of this job, if you are successful in your application, you will be subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service with barred list check. This will be done by means of applying for a DBS certificate through the Disclosure and Barring Service. Disclosures include details of cautions, reprimands or final warnings as well as convictions, spent or unspent. Clearance will be obtained before employment commences. We will also complete media searches as part of due diligence and safeguarding checks in line with KCSIE guidance.
• South Downs Education Trust (SDET) is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and
young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
• Worthing High School & Clapham and Patching C of E Primary school are part of SDET, which is an academy
trust and a charitable company limited by guarantee and registered in England and Wales with company number 8276210. The Registered Office is at: South Farm Road, Worthing, West Sussex BN14 7AR
• We recognise continuous service from academy/non-academy schools
https://www.worthinghigh.net/join-us/careers mailto:vacancies@sdetrust.net