What Does a Teaching Assistant Do? Duties, Roles and Skills

Starting work as a teaching assistant can be a great way to work with children and support their learning. But you may ask, what does a teaching assistant do each day? A TA mainly helps the teacher in the classroom and gives extra support to pupils who need it. They may help children with reading, writing, or maths. Not only that, they can also prepare class activities, support good behaviour and work with small groups or individual pupils. The job can be busy but it can be very rewarding when you see a child make progress.

In this guide, we explain what a teaching assistant does, their main duties, useful skills and how you can start this career.

What Does a Teaching Assistant Do in a School?

A teaching assistant works with teachers and pupils throughout the school day. What do teaching assistants do? They take on many simple but important tasks to help children learn and feel comfortable.

1. Help with lessons: Teaching assistants help teachers get lessons and activities ready.
2. Support classwork: Explain tasks and guide pupils when they need help.
3. Give extra support: Spend more time with children who find learning hard.
4. Help pupils stay focused: Encourage children to listen, join in and complete their work.
5. Prepare class resources: Get books, worksheets and other learning items ready.
6. Keep things organised: Help keep the classroom tidy and ready for learning.
7. Support reading, writing and maths: Help pupils practise these key skills.
8. Supervise pupils: Watch children during breaks, trips and other school activities.

What Are the Daily Tasks of a Teaching Assistant?

A teaching assistant has many jobs during the school day. They work with the teacher and help pupils with their schoolwork. Some TAs help the whole class while others work with one child or a small group.

One key job is to help children understand their work. A TA may explain a task, answer questions, or show a child what to do. They can also help with reading, writing, maths and other classwork.

TAs also help keep the classroom calm and tidy. They remind children to follow the rules and stay focused. They may also get books, worksheets and other things ready for a lesson.

Sometimes, a TA helps the teacher check a child's progress. They may make simple notes about how well a pupil is doing. They can then share this with the teacher.

TAs may also help during break time, school trips and other activities. Most of all, they help children feel safe, happy and ready to learn.

What Does a Teaching Assistant Do for SEN Pupils?

Teaching assistants often give extra help to pupils with special educational needs (SEN). Every child is different, so the support can change from one pupil to another.

A TA may work with a child on a one-to-one basis. They can explain tasks in small and simple steps. They may also give the child more time to finish their work.

Some pupils need help with reading, writing, maths, speaking, or listening. A TA can sit with them and practise these skills. They can also use simple games and activities to make learning more fun.

TAs can help with social skills too. For example, they may help a child take turns, share, listen, or work with other pupils. They can also give praise when a child makes progress.

A TA may change an activity to make it easier for a child to understand. They can use pictures, simple words, or extra practice. They also work with teachers and SEN staff to give the right support. With care and patience, a TA can make a big difference. Their help can make pupils feel safe, included and more confident at school.

Where Can a Teaching Assistant Work?

Teaching assistants can work in many places. Their daily work can change based on the school and the pupils they support. Primary schools are a common choice for TAs. They may help children with reading, writing, maths and class activities. They often work closely with the class teacher.

Secondary schools also employ teaching assistants. Here, TAs may help pupils with lessons, homework, or certain subjects. They can give extra help to pupils who find school work hard. Special schools support children with different needs. TAs may work closely with one pupil or a small group. They can help with learning, communication and daily tasks.

Nurseries and early years settings also need support staff. TAs can help young children learn through play, stories and simple activities. They can also help children learn how to share and work with others.

Alternative education settings offer a different type of learning. TAs may help pupils who need extra support with learning or behaviour. They can help children feel calm and more confident. Choose a school setting that works well for you. Each one gives you a chance to help children learn, grow and feel good about themselves.

What Qualifications Do You Need to Be a Teaching Assistant?

You do not always need a degree to become a teaching assistant. However, many schools ask for some basic qualifications and skills.

Basic Requirements

1. GCSE English: Many schools ask for GCSE English at grade 4 or above.
2. GCSE maths: GCSE maths at grade 4 or above can also help.
3. Other qualifications: Functional Skills can count as an alternative.
4. DBS check: You will usually need an enhanced DBS check to work with children.
5. Good communication: You should be able to speak clearly and listen well.
6. Patience: Children learn at different speeds, so patience really helps.
7. Teamwork: You will work with teachers and other school staff.
8. Childcare experience: Experience with children can help you get a job.

Useful TA Qualifications

1. Level 2 course: A Level 2 course can teach you the basics of the TA role.
2. Level 3 course: A Level 3 course can help you build more skills.
3. TA apprenticeship: You can learn the job while working in a school.
4. Safeguarding training: This teaches you how to help keep children safe.
5. Child development training: This helps you understand how children learn and grow.

How to Be a Teaching Assistant: Skills You Need

You need more than qualifications to be a good teaching assistant. Your attitude also matters. You will work with children every day, so being kind, patient and helpful can make a big difference.

Good communication is important. You need to speak clearly and listen to children. This helps you understand what they need and explain tasks in a simple way. Patience can help you a lot. Children learn at different speeds. So, you may need to explain something more than once. Give them time and support when they find a task hard.

Kindness also matters. A friendly and caring approach can help children feel safe at school. A few kind words can also help a child feel more confident. Teamwork is part of the job. You will work with teachers and other school staff. Good teamwork helps everyone support the pupils better.

Good organisation makes your day easier. Keep books, worksheets and other class items neat and ready to use. This can save time during lessons. Confidence is useful too. You should feel comfortable helping children with their work. You may also need to speak with teachers and parents at times.

Staying calm is important. Some children may feel upset or struggle with their work. A calm approach can help them settle and try again. Good listening can build trust. Pay attention when children speak or ask questions. This shows them that you care about what they have to say.

How to Become a Teaching Assistant With No Experience

You can become a teaching assistant without school work experience. You just need to show that you enjoy working with children and want to learn.

1. Search for entry-level TA jobs: Some schools accept people who have little or no experience.
2. Volunteer at a school: This gives you a chance to work with children and learn about school life.
3. Take a TA course: A course can teach you the basics of the job.
4. Build useful skills: Work on your speaking, listening and patience.
5. Use your past work: Other jobs may have given you skills that can help in a school.
6. Write a clear CV: Add your skills, work history, courses and any work with children.
7. Start with small steps: Volunteering can help you gain skills and feel more confident.

How Much Do Teaching Assistants Get Paid?

Teaching assistant pay can be different across the UK. A full-time TA may earn around £23,000 to £29,000 a year. This works out at about £12.50 to £16.50 an hour. Many TAs work only during school terms. They often work for about 38 to 39 weeks a year. So, their actual yearly pay can be lower. It may be around £12,000 to £15,000, based on the job and contract.

Your pay can also depend on your experience, skills, job level and location. For example, a new TA may earn less than an experienced TA. More skills and duties can help you earn a higher wage.

Teaching Assistant Pay by Level

A Level 1 TA is usually a beginner role. They may earn around £12.26 to £13.50 an hour. The full-time salary can start at about £24,413 a year. A Level 2 or Level 3 TA may earn around £13.50 to £15 an hour. These TAs often have more duties and may have extra training.

A SEN teaching assistant may earn around £13.03 to £15 an hour. They give extra help to pupils who need more support at school. A Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) may earn around £15 to £17 or more an hour. Their full-time salary can reach £28,000 to £34,000. They often take on more work and may lead lessons or cover classes.

Final Thoughts

Now you know what does a teaching assistant do and what the job involves each day. TAs help teachers, support pupils and make learning easier. The role can also be a great first step if you want to build a career in education. If you are thinking about starting this career, our Free Teaching Assistant Course can be a useful place to begin. It can help you learn more about classroom work, build useful skills and understand what schools expect.

So, why not start learning today? A little training now could help you feel more ready for your first TA role.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I be a TA with no experience?

1. Yes. Some schools hire people with no experience. Volunteering, childcare work, or a TA course can help you get started.

2. What are the duties and responsibilities of a teaching assistant?

1. A TA helps the teacher and supports pupils. They may help with lessons, classwork, reading, writing, maths and behaviour.

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

1. Most TAs work around 6 to 8 hours a day. The hours can change by school and job.

4. Is being a TA a good job?

1. Yes, it can be a good job if you enjoy working with children. It can also help you gain school experience.

5. What are the disadvantages of being a teaching assistant?

1. The job can be busy and tiring. Pay may also be lower than some other school jobs. Some TAs only work during term time.

6. How long is TA training?

1. TA training can take a few weeks to several months. It depends on the course you choose.

7. Do TAs get paid for lunch?

1. It depends on your contract. If your lunch break is unpaid, you will not get paid for that time.