Everything you need to know about becoming a Teaching Assistant

Thinking of becoming a Teaching Assistant? The roles and responsibilities of Teaching Assistants have evolved over time, and they’re increasingly becoming vital components of the modern classroom.

Beloved by staff and students alike, they’re mainstays of our education system – but what does it take to become successful in this position?

We’ve broken it down for you...

What...

Teaching Assistants are seen by many as the backbone of the classroom. They provide support to teachers and pupils, help to prepare classroom materials, perform administrative duties and assist with assessments and student monitoring.

They can also help students with learning difficulties and those who need extra attention in the classroom. This may involve running one-to-one reading or writing sessions or supporting groups who may be struggling in a particular subject area.

In secondary schools you will likely provide support on a particular subject and you may work with smaller groups of students.

When...

TA positions can be both full and part-time, though the work hours are restricted to term-time only.

Unlike teachers who often do marking and preparation out of teaching hours, TAs will usually complete their duties within teaching hours.

Full-time TAs will typically work the normal school day and clock up 40 hours per week, though part-timers will work fewer hours.

Where...

Teaching Assistants work alongside classroom teachers in primary and secondary schools across the UK.

Their work is typically kept within the classroom environment but occasionally they may provide support with extra-curricular work and activities, including outings and sports events.

Why...

Successful TAs are those who are passionate about working with children and in education. The flexible hours makes it ideal for parents and other individuals who have other responsibilities and hobbies to fit in around work hours.

If you want to make a difference in young people’s lives without being tethered to your desk for hours on end, this could be the perfect position for you.

Similarly, if you are considering training as a teacher this could be a great way to dip your toes in the water and find out if education is a good fit.

How... Skills required to be a great TA include patience, flexibility, communication and a knowledge of child development. You’ll need to be able to motivate and engage students while building relationships with teachers, students and parents alike.

TAs can go on to become a level 2 or 3, or even Higher Level Teaching Assistant, a role which was introduced in 2003. To achieve this qualification, you’ll need to have already been working as a TA and pass an assessment process either online or through a local college, but if you’re working with Capita your consultant will always be more than happy to advise you on your career development.

Take a look at our current vacancies here and start

planning your new career!

Contact Capita Education Recruitment on

0800 731 6871.

www.capitaeducation.co.uk

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