Thinking about teacher training in Durham? Start in a classroom first

Location: Durham
Job Type: Temporary
Reference: 311022614
Salary: £89.35 - £120/day + PAYE, Daily rate dependent on experience
Job Published: 03 February 2026

Before you commit to a PGCE or SCITT, imagine knowing exactly what school life feels like.

Graduates across Durham are joining schools as Teaching Assistants and Cover Supervisors, gaining paid experience while working out their next move.

Halfway through, here’s the important bit:

  • TA roles are Monday to Friday during term time only

  • Cover Supervisor roles offer flexibility across the week

  • Work across primary, secondary, SEND and alternative provision

  • Build strong school references for teacher training applications

A Cover Supervisor runs lessons using work set by the teacher, supports behaviour, and keeps learning moving. You gain classroom confidence fast, especially in KS3 and KS4 settings.

Supply work means variety, breathing space, and exposure to different schools before choosing where you want to train or teach.

Protocol Education supports graduates every step of the way, with free CPD, Thrive training, weekly pay, and honest advice about teacher training routes in Durham.

This isn’t just a graduate job, it’s a launchpad.