What is a teaching assistant?
A teaching assistant or teaching aide is an individual who assists a teacher with instructional responsibilities. They support teachers and help children with their educational and social development, reinforcing lessons both in and out of the classroom, individually or in small groups.
Teaching assistants may also provide feedback to teachers to help monitor student progress.
How to become a teaching assistant?
Although you don’t need a degree to become a teaching assistant, having one can be an advantage as it demonstrates a competent level of skills.
You can get into this job through an apprenticeship, volunteering, or a college course.
Apprenticeship: You’ll usually need 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship.
Volunteering: You could gain experience in a local school or community organisation. This can sometimes lead to paid work or the chance to gain relevant qualifications.
College course: You can take a college qualification to get started, for example:
- Level 2 or 3 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools
- Level 2 Teaching Assistant Course
- Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education
- T Level in Education and Childcare
Teaching assistant duties
There are many roles and responsibilities of a teaching assistant, including:
- Helping teachers with recordkeeping, such as taking attendance and calculating grades
- Helping pupils develop independent learning skills and manage their own learning
- Providing one-to-one and small group support to children who need it
- Clearing away materials and equipment after lessons
- Ensuring pupils stay engaged and on task so they can become independent learners
Teaching assistant skills
To be an effective teaching assistant, you’ll need certain skills and competencies. These are often listed in job vacancies:
- Willingness to keep up to date with educational policy and training
- A positive approach to working with children and the ability to motivate and inspire
- Sensitivity and understanding when building relationships with children
- Flexibility and openness to change
- Ability to create the best conditions for learning
- Good organisational skills
How to find a teaching assistant job
Teaching assistant jobs are advertised online, in local newspapers, and at jobcentres. To find teaching assistant jobs near you:
- Search popular job websites such as Indeed, Total Jobs, and CV Library
- Use the DWP Find a Job service
- Check local newspapers and local Facebook job groups
Teaching assistant job titles
When searching online, teaching assistant jobs may be advertised under different titles, including:
- Teacher’s aide
- Education assistant
- Instructional aide
- Paraeducator
- Paraprofessional
What does a teaching assistant do?
The role of a teaching assistant varies depending on the employer and setting. Always check job descriptions to find roles that suit your skills and experience.
Typical day-to-day tasks include:
- Watching, recording, and reporting pupils’ progress
- Helping teachers manage classroom behaviour
- Supporting children who are upset or unwell
- Leading classes with support from the teacher
- Listening to children read
- Maintaining a safe and healthy environment and following safeguarding procedures
- Working with individuals and groups to help them understand their work and stay focused