General Cover Office Admin - Cardiff Secondary

2nd November start
Full Time
Posted about 8 hours ago
Expiring 16th July
Cardiff, Wales
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Job description

About the Role Zen educate is seeking a proactive, highly organised, and experienced Administrative Assistant to join our busy school office team in Cardiff. As the first point of contact for parents, visitors, and pupils, you will play a key role in ensuring the smooth daily operation of our secondary school. This is a term-time-only position with an immediate start, ideal for an administrative professional looking for a rewarding role that offers a strong work-life balance during school holidays. Key Responsibilities Act as the primary point of contact for telephone inquiries, emails, and visitors at reception, delivering a warm and professional service. Maintain student databases (e.g., SIMS, Teacher HQ, or equivalent) and manage daily attendance records. Support school leadership and teaching staff with word processing, filing, photocopying, and general clerical duties. Handle incoming/outgoing mail, pupil records, and general administrative correspondence. Assist with incoming pupil admissions, school trips administration, and parent communications (e.g., via ParentPay or text systems). Provide general administrative support during scheduled inset days or 5 agreed days outside standard term dates. Requirements & Qualifications Experience: Proven administrative experience within an educational setting (secondary school experience preferred) or a fast-paced office environment. Systems Knowledge: Hands-on experience with school management information systems (e.g., SIMS, Arbor) is strongly preferred. Skills: Excellent communication (written and verbal), strong numerical skills, and proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook). Attributes: Exceptional organizational skills, high attention to detail, and the ability to maintain strict confidentiality. Safeguarding: An enhanced DBS check registered on the Update Service (or willingness to undergo one) is mandatory. Knowledge of school safeguarding procedures is a major advantage. Languages: Welsh language skills are desirable but not essential. What We Offer A supportive, friendly, and welcoming school community. Term-time-only working pattern with standard school holidays off. Access to local government pension scheme options and staff well-being programs. Continuous professional development and training opportunities.
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Latest 11 jobs in Wales

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  • General Cover Office Admin - Cardiff Secondary
    Secondary school in CardiffFull Time
    2 Nov 2026 - 16 Jul 2027
    About the Role Zen educate is seeking a proactive, highly organised, and experienced Administrative Assistant to join our busy school office team in Cardiff. As the first point of contact for parents, visitors, and pupils, you will play a key role in ensuring the smooth daily operation of our secondary school. This is a term-time-only position with an immediate start, ideal for an administrative professional looking for a rewarding role that offers a strong work-life balance during school holidays. Key Responsibilities Act as the primary point of contact for telephone inquiries, emails, and visitors at reception, delivering a warm and professional service. Maintain student databases (e.g., SIMS, Teacher HQ, or equivalent) and manage daily attendance records. Support school leadership and teaching staff with word processing, filing, photocopying, and general clerical duties. Handle incoming/outgoing mail, pupil records, and general administrative correspondence. Assist with incoming pupil admissions, school trips administration, and parent communications (e.g., via ParentPay or text systems). Provide general administrative support during scheduled inset days or 5 agreed days outside standard term dates. Requirements & Qualifications Experience: Proven administrative experience within an educational setting (secondary school experience preferred) or a fast-paced office environment. Systems Knowledge: Hands-on experience with school management information systems (e.g., SIMS, Arbor) is strongly preferred. Skills: Excellent communication (written and verbal), strong numerical skills, and proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook). Attributes: Exceptional organizational skills, high attention to detail, and the ability to maintain strict confidentiality. Safeguarding: An enhanced DBS check registered on the Update Service (or willingness to undergo one) is mandatory. Knowledge of school safeguarding procedures is a major advantage. Languages: Welsh language skills are desirable but not essential. What We Offer A supportive, friendly, and welcoming school community. Term-time-only working pattern with standard school holidays off. Access to local government pension scheme options and staff well-being programs. Continuous professional development and training opportunities.
    Learn more
    Posted about 8 hours ago
  • SEN Teaching Assistant - Brecon ALN-school
    SEN School school in PowysFull Time
    5 Oct - 25 Dec 2026
    About the Role We are seeking a dedicated, resilient, and proactive General Cover ALN Teaching Assistant to join our supportive team in Brecon. This role is ideal for an experienced individual who is confident working within a school setting that supports a high number of pupils with Additional Learning Needs (ALN), including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The successful candidate will be expected to provide high-quality classroom support across a range of year groups and learning environments, often stepping into different settings at short notice. This is a role for someone who can "hit the ground running", build positive relationships quickly, and consistently go above and beyond to support pupils, staff, and the wider school community. Key Responsibilities: - Provide classroom support for pupils with ALN and ASD across the school. - Deliver effective general cover support when required, adapting to different classes and learning environments. - Support pupils' academic, social, emotional, and behavioural development. - Implement individual learning plans, behaviour support strategies, and interventions as directed by teaching staff. - Manage challenging behaviours using positive behaviour management techniques and de-escalation strategies. - Promote a safe, inclusive, and nurturing learning environment. - Work collaboratively with teachers, ALN staff, pastoral teams, and external professionals. - Support pupils during lessons, break times, educational visits, and other school activities as required. - Maintain accurate records and provide feedback on pupil progress and wellbeing. - Uphold safeguarding and child protection procedures at all times.
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    Posted 1 day ago
  • Primary Level Teacher- Key Stage 3, Full time
    Pupil Referral Unit school in CardiffFull Time
    28 Sep - 18 Dec 2026
    About the Role Zen Educate is seeking an empathetic, resilient, and dedicated Primary Practitioner to deliver engaging vocational learning to Key Stage 4 students (ages 14–16). Many of our young people face complex barriers to education and operate below age-related expectations. Because of your background in primary pedagogy, you understand how to break down complex concepts, scaffold learning, and build foundational literacy and numeracy into practical activities. You will teach low-level, hands-on vocational courses designed to re-engage students, build self-esteem, and prepare them for post-16 pathways or independent living. Key Responsibilities Plan and deliver a accessible, practical vocational curriculum tailored to 14–16-year-olds working at entry or foundational levels. Embed primary-level core skills (functional literacy, communication, and numeracy) within practical, project-based tasks. Create a safe, structured, and nurturing classroom environment that supports sensory and emotional needs. Manage challenging behaviors using restorative practices, trauma-informed strategies, and positive de-escalation techniques. Track individual progress, set realistic learning targets, and contribute to Education, Health, and Care Plans (EHCPs) or individual risk assessments. Collaborate with multi-agency teams, including social care, educational psychologists, and parents/carers. Candidate Requirements Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent primary/specialist teaching qualification. Proven experience working with learners with Behavioral, Emotional, and Social Difficulties (BESD / SEMH). Strong grounding in primary teaching methodology, with the ability to adapt lower-level content for older adolescents without making it feel childish. Exceptional classroom and behavior management skills paired with high levels of emotional resilience, patience, and humor. Commitment to safeguarding and trauma-informed practice. What We Offer A supportive, close-knit team dedicated to making a genuine difference in young people's lives. Small class sizes with high staff-to-student ratios (including dedicated Teaching Assistants). Continuous professional development (CPD) in SEMH, de-escalation, and specialist vocational pathways. Access to employee assistance programs and wellness support.
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    Posted 2 days ago
  • Year 9 ALNTeaching Assistant - Cardiff Secondary
    Secondary school in CardiffFull Time
    21 Sep 2026 - 16 Jul 2027
    Zen Educate is seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic Secondary Teaching Assistant to join a vibrant and forward-thinking secondary school in Cardiff. The school prides itself on fostering a supportive, inclusive, and aspirational learning environment where every student is encouraged to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. This role is integral to the school’s mission of empowering students to reach their full potential through personalised support and high-quality teaching. As a Teaching Assistant, you will work closely with both individual students and whole classes, playing a key role in ensuring that all learners—particularly those with additional learning needs—can access the curriculum and engage meaningfully in school life. This full-time, long-term position is available immediately and offers an excellent opportunity to make a lasting impact within a school that places strong emphasis on holistic development, wellbeing, and academic success. Key Responsibilities - Provide targeted one-to-one and small group support to students with additional learning needs, helping them to access learning, build confidence, and develop independence - Assist students with both academic tasks and social development, reinforcing the school’s commitment to inclusive, student-centred education - Support classroom teachers in delivering engaging lessons by preparing resources, setting up activities, and maintaining a focused and positive learning environment - Adapt and differentiate learning materials and approaches in collaboration with teaching staff to meet the diverse needs of learners - Monitor, record, and report on student progress, behaviour, and wellbeing, ensuring that any concerns are communicated promptly and appropriately - Contribute to the implementation of personalised learning strategies and support plans - Supervise and support students during lessons, transitions, break times, and extracurricular activities, promoting positive behaviour and respectful interactions - Act as a positive role model, promoting the school’s core values of respect, resilience, and responsibility in all interactions - Support behaviour management strategies in line with school policies, using a calm, consistent, and proactive approach - Build strong, professional relationships with students, staff, and where appropriate, parents and carers - Engage in ongoing training and professional development to strengthen skills and remain aligned with the school’s educational practices and safeguarding standards Why Join This School? - A welcoming and inclusive school community with a strong pastoral ethos - Supportive leadership and collaborative staff culture - A clear commitment to staff development and wellbeing - Opportunities to gain valuable experience in a dynamic secondary setting Why Join Zen Educate? At Zen Educate, we recognise that the right role can make all the difference. We are committed to supporting teaching assistants in finding positions that suit their skills, preferences, and career goals.
    Learn more
    Posted 12 days ago
  • Year 3 Class Teaching Assistant - Forest Of Dean Primary
    Primary school in Forest of DeanFull Time
    28 Sep - 23 Oct 2026
    1:1 Teaching Assistant / SEND Support Location: GL17 Area Contract Type: Full time - Term 1 (possibility of extension) Start Date: ASAP We are seeking a warm, dynamic, and intuitive 1:1 Teaching Assistant to support a fantastic Year 3 boy on his learning journey. He is a bright pupil with immense potential who is currently undergoing assessments for neurodiverse needs (a mix of ASD and ADHD traits). He simply needs a dedicated champion to help him navigate the classroom environment, regulate his energy, and stay engaged with his learning. What the Role Involves - Supporting one-to-one inside the classroom to break down tasks and keep learning accessible and engaging. - Helping with emotional regulation, sensory breaks, and transition times throughout the school day. - Utilising our brilliant school grounds—we are lucky to have extensive, lovely outdoor and quiet spaces perfect for practical learning and movement breaks. - Working closely with the class teacher and SENDCO to implement tailored strategies and track progress. What We Are Looking For - Experience (or a strong natural aptitude) working with primary-aged children with SEND, particularly ASD and/or ADHD traits. - A proactive, creative approach—someone who knows when to offer gentle encouragement and when to step back and allow independence. - Patience, high energy, and a good sense of humor. - Strong communication skills to liaise with school staff and parents. What We Offer - Exceptional SENDCO Backing: You will not be left on an island. Our experienced SENDCO provides structured guidance, regular check-ins, and consistent support. - A Fantastic Environment: A welcoming school team and access to beautiful indoor and outdoor learning spaces designed to help children thrive. - Continuous Growth: Access to relevant SEND training and professional development.
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    Posted 15 days ago
  • Attendance Officer
    Secondary school in NewportFull Time
    14 Sep - 18 Dec 2026
    About the Role Zen Educate is seeking an organised and proactive Attendance & Admin Officer to join a secondary school based in Newport. This dual role focuses primarily on managing daily attendance procedures, supporting the wider administration of the school, and assisting with basic examination arrangements as needed. This is a full-time, long-term opportunity starting on a temporary basis, with a clear temp-to-perm pathway for the right candidate. Key Responsibilities - Attendance Tracking: Monitor daily student attendance, maintain accurate register records on the school MIS system (e.g., SIMS/Arbor), generate reports, and follow up on unexcused absences. - Exams Assistance: Help with examination administration, including setup, paper preparation, seating plans, and invigilator coordination during peak exam periods. - General Administration: Handle everyday clerical duties, including data entry, managing incoming calls, filing, and supporting senior leadership as required. - Communication: Serve as an efficient point of contact for staff, pupils, and external organisations. Requirements - Experience: Proven administrative experience within a school or education setting, with direct experience handling school attendance. - Technical Skills: Proficiency with school information systems (e.g., SIMS, Arbor, Bromcom) and core Microsoft Office tools. Desirable: - Prior experience with exams administration/JCQ regulations. - Background in pastoral care, family liaison, or safeguarding. - Attributes: Strong attention to detail, exceptional organizational skills, and a reliable, confidential approach. - Compliance: An Enhanced DBS check on the Update Service (or willingness to obtain one prior to starting).
    Learn more
    Posted 15 days ago
  • Teaching Assistant- Intervention support
    Secondary school in CardiffFull Time
    14 Sep - 18 Dec 2026
    About the Role Zen Educate is seeking an enthusiastic, skilled, and dedicated Teaching Assistant to join our team to deliver targeted support for students across the school. In this role, you will focus on high-impact intervention work—spending mornings supporting lower ability learners and afternoons supporting children with challenging behaviour through small group booster sessions and tailored 1:1 support to bridge learning gaps, build confidence, and boost academic progress. This is a full-time, long-term opportunity starting immediately for the right candidate. Key Responsibilities Morning Interventions: Support lower ability learners by delivering structured 1:1 and small group sessions in Literacy, Numeracy, and core subject areas. Afternoon Support: Provide dedicated support for children with challenging behavior, employing positive behavior management strategies to maintain focus and engagement. Assess, track, and record pupil progress, adapting delivery strategies to meet diverse learning needs. Support pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), English as an Additional Language (EAL), or those requiring extra academic guidance. Work closely with class teachers and the ALNCO to align intervention plans with the curriculum. Foster a positive, encouraging learning environment that boosts student engagement and self-esteem. Requirements Experience: Proven track record delivering targeted 1:1 or small group interventions in a school setting, with direct experience supporting lower ability learners and managing challenging behavior. Qualifications: Level 2/3 Teaching Assistant qualification (or equivalent experience) is preferred. Skills: Strong understanding of core literacy and numeracy frameworks, excellent behavior management techniques, and strong communication skills. Availability: Full-time (Monday–Friday during school hours) and able to commit on a long-term basis immediately. Compliance: Enhanced DBS check on the Update Service (or willingness to apply for one).
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    Posted 15 days ago
  • ALN Teaching Assistant - Cardiff Secondary
    Secondary school in CardiffFull Time
    14 Sep - 18 Dec 2026
    Zen Educate is seeking a compassionate, resilient, and highly experienced Teaching Assistant to join our dedicated team within our Alternative Provision / Wellbeing Centre. This full-time, long-term role is ideal for an educator who excels at supporting students with diverse learning, social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) needs. In addition to core classroom support, this post offers the opportunity to step up as a Cover Supervisor on an occasional basis, leading whole-class sessions and maintaining structure when primary teachers are absent. Key Responsibilities - Targeted Student Support: Provide 1:1 and small-group academic, social, and emotional support to students within the Alternative Provision and Wellbeing Centre. - Behaviour & Wellbeing Management: Utilise nurture-based approaches and de-escalation strategies to help students manage stress, build resilience, and remain engaged in learning. - Occasional Cover Supervision: Confidently step up on occasion to supervise whole-class learning using pre-planned work, ensuring a safe, orderly, and productive environment. - Collaborative Support: Work closely with the SENCO, Head of Wellbeing, and classroom teachers to track student progress, adjust support plans, and implement individual education interventions. - Safe & Supportive Environment: Maintain a calm, structured, and welcoming atmosphere within the Wellbeing Centre, fostering positive relationships and student confidence. Candidate Profile & Requirements - Experience: Substantial experience supporting students with SEN, SEMH, or within an Alternative Provision / Nurture setting. - Cover Ability: Confidence, adaptability, and strong classroom management skills to act as a Cover Supervisor when needed. - Commitment: Fully available for a full-time, long-term placement. - Skills: Patient, trauma-informed, proactive, with excellent communication and de-escalation skills. - Safeguarding: Enhanced DBS check registered on the Update Service (or willingness to apply).
    Learn more
    Posted 21 days ago
  • General Cover Office Admin - Newport Sen-school
    SEN School school in NewportFull Time
    1 Sep - 18 Dec 2026
    Summary We are seeking a dedicated, organized, and compassionate Reception and Administration Assistant to join our supportive team in Newport. As the first point of contact for our school, this role is integral to providing an inclusive, warm, and nurturing environment for students, staff, and visitors. Working within a specialist SEN setting, you will manage front-of-house operations and provide vital administrative support that keeps our school running smoothly, aligning with our mission to empower students to thrive. This is a part-time position, beginning as soon as possible and continuing on a permanent basis, Monday to Friday.
    Learn more
    Posted 3 months ago
  • ALN, SEMH Teaching Assistants- Full time
    SEN School school in Herefordshire, County ofFull Time
    21 Sep 2026 - 23 Jul 2027
    Zen Educate is seeking a dedicated and experienced Learning Support Assistant to join our team on a full-time basis. This role involves supporting children and young people with severe autism, including those who are non-verbal and require personal care. You will play a vital role in creating a calm, supportive, and safe environment where every individual can thrive. Key Responsibilities - Provide high-quality, compassionate support tailored to pupils with severe autism and complex needs - Assist with personal care in a respectful and dignified manner - Use Makaton or other communication methods to support understanding and expression - Foster a calm, structured, and safe learning environment - Work collaboratively with teachers, therapists, and families to support each pupil’s development - Promote positive behaviour and emotional wellbeing - Ensure all pupils are treated with respect, dignity, and understanding at all times You must be committed to ensuring that every child and young person is treated with respect and that their rights, needs, aspirations, personal preferences, and individual pathways remain at the heart of everything we do. The school strive to increase access and opportunities for our young people to enjoy lifelong learning into adulthood. Their goal is to enhance the opportunities available to our pupils so they can make a unique and meaningful contribution to their families, school, and local community. Requirements - Proven experience supporting individuals with severe autism and complex needs - Experience supporting non-verbal communication - Training in Makaton or other communication approaches (desirable/essential as applicable) - Ability to provide personal care with sensitivity and professionalism - Strong communication and teamwork skills - A calm, patient, and resilient approach - A genuine passion for supporting children and young people with additional needs What We’re Looking For Zen is looking for strong, committed, and compassionate individuals who are dedicated to making a real difference. The ideal candidate will be proactive, adaptable, and deeply committed to supporting every learner to reach their full potential.
    Learn more
    Posted 6 months ago
  • English Teacher - SEN School
    SEN School school in DenbighshireFull Time
    19 May - 18 Jul 2025
    Summary: We are seeking a dedicated and experienced SEN School Teacher to join our specialised residential school in Denbighshire. This full-time role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to an environment that upholds our school's ethos of nurturing every child's potential through personalised learning and compassionate support. The successful candidate will be committed to delivering high-quality English education tailored to the needs of students with special educational needs, working within a collaborative team to foster a positive and inclusive community. The role is long-term/permanent, providing stability and continuity for both staff and students. Key Responsibilities: - Plan and deliver English lessons to small classes of up to five students, ensuring lessons are accessible and cater to individual learning needs in accordance with the school’s personalised approach. - Assess and monitor student progress regularly, adapting teaching methods and resources to support individual development and achieve GCSE level outcomes where appropriate. - Work alongside two Teaching Assistants to provide targeted support for students, facilitating their engagement and understanding of the curriculum. - Develop individualised learning programmes in collaboration with the wider team, ensuring alignment with each student’s educational plan and goals. - Maintain a safe, nurturing, and inclusive classroom environment that promotes the well-being and confidence of all learners. - Uphold the school's values of respect, resilience, and independence, fostering a positive ethos that encourages student participation and achievement. - Collaborate with colleagues, parents, and external professionals to support holistic student development and ensure consistent progress. - Contribute to the planning and organisation of school activities and interventions that promote social, emotional, and academic growth. Why Join Zen Educate? At Zen Educate, we understand the importance of work-life balance for teachers and teaching assistants. Whether you are looking for better pay, more flexibility in your schedule, or hands-on support to help you find the right role, we are here to support you every step of the way. Join our platform today and let us help you take the next step in your career.
    Learn more
    Posted over 1 year ago

FAQ

Signing up

I'm having trouble registering

If the online sign up isn't working as it should for you then you can email your CV and a short description of what you're looking for to our team at teachwithus@zeneducate.com and we'll be in touch.

How do I interview? Do I have to come to your office?

To make sure you're getting bookings perfect for you, we will invite you to a 30-minute online interview with our team to learn about your experience, preferences and why you're passionate about working in education. You can do this through any smartphone or computer. If you'd prefer to interview in person at our office, just let us know. Recent regulation changes require us to see your documents for your right to work in the UK in person. This takes no more than 5 minutes, dropping by our offices in London or Manchester.

I'm still in a full-time job/ not looking to work straight away and just looking

If you're not ready to find another role, or, you're definitely still welcome to sign up. Registering with us and letting us know what you're looking for will help us to get in touch with you about roles you may be interested in!

I only have overseas experience. Is that OK?

Generally schools prefer teachers and TAs who are familiar with the UK Curriculum, but this can vary. We'd be happy to speak to you about your experience, and find out if we'd be able to help you find a role.

Vetting

What documents will I need to provide?

We'll need evidence of your identity, right to work and teaching qualifaction. In addition, we'll need an enhanced DBS certificate and references from two recent previous employers.

Can you apply for a DBS for me?

Yes. If you need a DBS or your DBS needs updating we can apply for one fore you. The cost of a DBS is £47.20 which we will reimburse once you have worked 10 days through Zen.

I don't have my documents right now. Can I still sign up?

Yes! You can sign up now and let us know what work you're looking for. You can return at any time to finish your profile and start getting bookings.

I don't have recent references, can I still sign up?

You can definitely still sign up! Once you've uploaded your CV, we'll be able to look at your experience, and help you figure out who would be best placed to act as your referees.

Roles

What roles do you cover?

We help Teachers, Teaching Assistants, and Cover Supervisors find work. We work with all types of schools and help with short-term, long-term and permanent roles. Many of our long-term roles convert to permanent roles. We make it far easier than a traditional agency for teachers to convert temporary positions into permanent ones.

What areas do you cover?

We work with over 400 schools in London, Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol and Leeds.

How much work is there?

Generally speaking, we have consistently high demand for daily supply teachers in Greater London, Manchester Birmingham, Bristol and Leeds. Teaching assistant work is generally higher for long-term roles rather than daily supply cover.

Do you have primary, secondary or nursery jobs?

Yes. We can help with daily supply and long-term jobs in nurseries, primary schools and secondary schools. We don't typically have jobs in further education or college.

Do you have work for cover supervisors, invigilators, or school administrators?

While the majority of our work is for teachers and teaching assistants, we do also have work for cover supervisors and invigilators. Explain what you are looking for when you sign up and our team will help you.

What subjects do you cover?

We cover all subjects taught in primary and secondary schools - if you're not sure if we can help you with what you're looking for, please register and arrange to speak to a member of our Teacher Success team.

Do you do school admin jobs?

If you're looking for teaching or teaching assistant roles, and would also be interested in admin roles, it's worth letting us know. If you're only looking for admin roles, we might not be the place for you, as this isn't what we specialise in.

General

How is Zen different from a recruitment agency?

Zen Educate is a technology platform to connect teachers with schools directly. Agencies are an expensive middleman between schools and teachers. They have to charge high commissions because their booking procedures are largely manual and run on outdated systems. Because we run more of the process online or on your phone, we create an experience that delights schools and teachers at a fraction of the cost.

What roles do you cover?

Start a conversation on chat or email support@zeneducate.com and our friendly team will get back to you shortly.