We’re proud to celebrate National Teaching Assistants’ Day in recognition of the contribution Teaching Assistants make across Primary, Secondary and SEN schools in England and Wales.
We recognise the valuable role of a Teaching Assistant in our classrooms to support education and raise the standard of teaching from class groups to individual student support.
Our TA apprenticeships offer an alternative pathway into teaching where young learners can progress to a Foundation Degree level through the work experience, knowledge and training gained throughout their apprenticeship in a live classroom setting.
We also work with experienced TAs who are looking to upskill and learn additional skills knowledge and behaviours to support them and apply to their current role.
Our TA apprenticeship includes specialist training in SEND, PE, Health and well-being and equips staff with strategies to support them with learners both in the classroom and in fields of play.
TAs work with teachers to support teaching and learning, providing general and specific assistance to pupils and staff under the direction, guidance, and direct supervision of the classroom teacher.
The vital role of Tas in the classroom
Teacher aides were first introduced In the 1960’s. It wasn’t until the 2000s that the term Teaching Assistants was adopted and became commonplace in a variety of education sectors.
Teaching Assistants have become a necessity in most primary school settings, and the secondary sector and are vital in supporting SEND students in mainstream schools as well as in specialist settings. They provide ‘hands-on’ support to students both in groups and individually.
Our specialist educational training programme includes training modules to learn vital skills to be able to support students who may require additional support.
To become a supply Teaching Assistant you will need to demonstrate:
- Experience of supporting children
- Good communication skills
- The ability to build good relationships with children and adults
- Excellent organisation and timekeeping
- Flexibility and creativity
What’s involved in being a Teaching Assistant
Many TA’s work from 8.30 am to the end of the school day, but this varies depending on the extracurricular activities on offer by school, such as sport. TA’s can work both full-time and part-time, as with other supportive roles.
Work with individuals or small groups of pupils in the classroom under the direct supervision of teaching staff and provide feedback to the teacher.
- Support pupils to understand instructions and support independent learning and inclusion of all pupils.
- Support the teacher in behaviour management and keeping pupils on task.
- Support pupils in social and emotional well-being, reporting problems to the teacher as appropriate.
- Prepare and clear up learning environment and resources, including photocopying, filing and the display and presentation of pupils work and contribute to maintaining a safe environment.
Teaching Assistants in this role may also undertake some or all the following:
- Record basic pupil data
- Support children’s learning through play
- Assist with break-time supervision including facilitating games and activities
- Assist with escorting pupils on educational visits
- Support pupils in using basic ICT
- Invigilate exams and tests
- Assist pupils with eating, dressing and hygiene, as required, whilst encouraging independence ( dependent on the education sector).
Apprenticeships are a great way to access training to earn while you learn, fit around childcare, return to work, and gain nationally recognised qualification.