How to Become a Teacher from Teaching Assistant: Easy UK Guide

Being a teaching assistant can help you move closer to becoming a qualified teacher. You already gain valuable classroom experience and learn how to support pupils every day. If you want to take the next step, you may wonder how to become a teacher from teaching assistant. The good news is that your experience can give you a strong start. However, you still need the right qualifications and teacher training. 

This guide covers the key steps, including GCSEs, a degree, ITT and QTS. It also explains how your TA experience can support you during teacher training and help you build classroom skills. 

How to Become a Teacher from Teaching Assistant?

Starting as a teaching assistant can help you build skills for a teaching career. You already spend time in the classroom and work closely with pupils. So, you may already have skills that teachers use every day.

To become a teacher, you usually need a degree and teacher training. In England, you also normally need Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). You can choose different ways to train. For example, you can study at university or train in a school.

Your TA experience can give you a big advantage. For example, you may already know how to support pupils, manage behaviour and prepare classroom activities. You may also feel more comfortable speaking with teachers, parents and other school staff.

However, the exact rules depend on where you live in the UK. The entry rules and training options are not the same across all four UK nations. Your chosen age group or subject can also affect what qualifications you need.

What Qualifications Do You Need to Become a Teacher?

If you want to become a teacher, you need the right qualifications and training. The exact requirements can vary depending on where you live and what you want to teach.

1. Qualified Teacher Status (QTS): In England, you usually need QTS to teach in most state schools. You gain QTS through an approved teacher training route.
2. GCSEs: You normally need GCSEs in English and maths at grade 4/C or above. For primary teaching, you also usually need GCSE science.
3. A-levels or equivalent: Many teacher training courses ask for A-levels or similar qualifications. However, the exact entry rules can vary by course.
4. A degree: Most routes require a degree. Your degree subject may also matter if you want to teach a particular subject.
5. Teacher training: You need to complete Initial Teacher Training (ITT). This gives you practical classroom experience and helps you build your teaching skills.
6. Primary teaching requirements: If you want to teach young children, you usually need GCSE-level English, maths and science.

Can a Teaching Assistant Become a Teacher Without a Degree?

You may wonder if you can become a teacher without a degree. In England, you usually need a degree to become a qualified teacher. However, you have several ways to get one while working as a teaching assistant.

A teacher degree apprenticeship is one option. You can work in a school while you study for a degree and train to teach. This lets you learn in the classroom as you study. You can also study for a degree while working as a TA. For example, you could choose a part-time or online course. This can help you earn your degree without leaving your job.

If you have good school experience, you may also find a route that suits your background. Your TA work can help you feel ready for teacher training. Always check the course rules before you apply, as they can vary.

What Is the Best Route from Teaching Assistant to Teacher?

Moving from a teaching assistant to a teacher may feel like a big step. But you can take it one step at a time.

1. Get the right qualifications: Check that you have the GCSEs and degree you need.
2. Check your eligibility: Make sure you meet the course entry rules.
3. Choose a training route: Pick a teacher training route that suits you.
4. Apply for training: Apply for your chosen teacher training course.
5. Complete your training: Learn teaching skills and gain classroom experience.
6. Gain QTS: In England, you usually need QTS to teach in most state schools.
7. Apply for jobs: After training, you can apply for teaching jobs.

Your TA experience can help you a lot. You already know how a school works. You also have experience working with pupils.

Can You Train to Be a Teacher While Working as a TA?

Yes, you may be able to train to become a teacher while working as a TA. This can help you keep your job while you learn new skills. You can also use your school experience during your training. School-based training lets you learn in a real school. You can work with pupils and watch experienced teachers. This can help you feel more confident in the classroom.

Some salaried training routes let you earn money while you train. This can be helpful because you do not need to stop working to study. You can also choose a teaching apprenticeship. This route lets you work, study and train at the same time. So, you can gain useful skills while working towards becoming a teacher.

Training while working has many benefits. You already know the school, staff and pupils. This can make the move into teaching easier. However, you need to manage your time well. Try to make time for work, study and rest. Also, speak to your school about the support they can give you.

Can a Teaching Assistant Become a Teacher Through the Assessment Only Route?

Yes, some experienced TAs can become teachers through the Assessment Only route. This route does not require you to complete a full teacher training course. Instead, you show that you already have the skills needed to teach.

You usually need a degree and the right GCSEs or equivalent qualifications. You also need good school experience. Your experience should show that you can plan lessons, teach pupils and manage a class.

During the route, an approved provider checks your teaching skills. You teach in a school and collect evidence of your work. An assessor then checks if you meet the required teaching standards.

This route may suit an experienced TA who already takes on many teaching tasks. It can save time if you already have strong teaching skills. However, always check the entry rules before you apply.

How Does TA Experience Help You Become a Teacher?

Your TA experience can give you a good start as a teacher. You already know how a school works and how to support pupils. You may have lots of experience working with pupils. This helps you understand their needs and support their learning.

You may also know how to manage classroom behaviour. For example, you may help pupils follow rules and stay focused. As a TA, you often help with lessons and class activities. This gives you a better idea of how teachers plan and teach lessons.

You also work with teachers and school staff. So, you can build good teamwork and communication skills. Your safeguarding knowledge can also help. You may already know how to spot a concern and tell the right person. Finally, you understand school routines. You know how lessons, breaks and other school tasks work. This can make your move into teaching feel easier.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Teacher from a TA?

The time can vary for each person. It depends on your current qualifications and the route you choose. If you already have a degree and the right GCSEs, you can start teacher training sooner. Many full-time teacher training courses take about one year.

If you do not have a degree, you may need to study for one first. This can add more time to your journey. A degree apprenticeship can be useful because you can work and study at the same time.

Your training route can also affect the time you need. Some routes let you work in a school while you train. Your previous experience may also help you feel more ready for the course. So, there is no single answer for everyone. Check your qualifications first. Then, choose a route that fits your needs, time and career plans.

How Much Does a Teacher Earn Compared with a Teaching Assistant?

Teachers often earn more than teaching assistants. However, pay can change based on your experience, job, location and hours. A teaching assistant may earn around £19,000 to £25,000 a year. Some TAs can earn more when they gain extra skills or move into a senior role.

A new teacher in England can earn around £32,000 a year. As you gain more experience, your pay can go up. You may also earn more if you take on extra duties. For example, you could move into a leadership role later in your career.

Your working hours also matter. A full-time teacher or TA usually earns more each year than someone who works part-time. However, part-time work can give you more time for family, study or other needs.

Key Takeaways: From Teaching Assistant to Teacher

Moving from a teaching assistant role into teaching can feel like a big career step. However, your classroom experience already gives you a useful head start.

The journey of how to become a teacher from teaching assistant usually starts with checking your qualifications. From there, you can choose the right teacher training route and work towards QTS. Your TA experience can also make the move easier. You already understand pupils, classroom routines and how teachers work each day.

A little training can make a big difference. Start building your classroom skills with our Free Teaching Assistant Course. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How much does a TA get paid per hour?

1. Teaching assistant pay often sits between £12 and £15 an hour across the UK. Rates can differ depending on where you work and your role.

2. Can I be a TA with no experience?

1. Yes. Some schools hire people without experience. However, childcare or school experience can improve your chances.

3. Is being a TA a good job?

1. Yes, it can be rewarding if you enjoy helping children learn. However, the job can feel busy and demanding.

4. Do TAs get paid over the summer?

1. Summer pay depends on your contract. Term-time TAs may not get paid during the school holidays.

5. How many hours does a TA work in a day?

1. Many TAs work around 6 to 7 hours a day. Hours can vary between schools and contracts.

6. Can a TA become a teacher without a degree?

1. In England, you usually need a degree to become a qualified teacher. Some routes let you earn a degree while working.