Teaching Assistant Job Description: Top Qualities and Responsibilities

The teaching assistant role is a challenging but rewarding job that provides a wealth of experience in an education environment. If you’re an empathetic and hardworking individual with a passion for helping children, a teaching assistant may be the perfect role for you.

In this article, we outline the responsibilities that you can expect to have in the teaching assistant role. We’ll also detail the top qualities and requirements needed for landing yourself the job.

What is a teaching assistant?

A teaching assistant provides support to teachers in the classroom. This may include working directly with teachers to plan lessons or mark work, or it may be working one-on-one with students to assist with their learning. 

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What are the responsibilities of a teaching assistant?

The responsibilities of a teaching assistant can vary significantly from day to day. This makes it a varied role that will keep you on your toes.

Responsibilities include:

• Preparing the classroom for lessons and tidying it up afterwards
• Assisting with lesson plans
• Supporting children across the curriculum
• Providing extra assistance to children with special needs
• Recording and reporting a student’s progress to the teacher
• Marking work
• Motivating and encouraging students
• Supervising students during school trips or activities
• Attending meetings
• Looking after children who are unwell or upset

Higher level teaching assistants may also take additional responsibilities, such as:

• Teaching classes on their own
• Covering planned absences
• Managing other learning support staff

What are the qualities required to be a teaching assistant?

Becoming a teaching assistant isn’t for everyone. It takes a particular individual to thrive in the role. In addition to being committed and passionate about helping children, you also need the following qualities:

• Good communication skills with the ability to communicate clearly to teachers and students
• Active listening skills
• Compassion and sensitivity towards children
• Knowledge of the curriculum 
• Ability to use a computer
• Can work well under pressure
• Ability to adapt to whatever the situation requires
• Maturity and professionalism

Ways to develop further as a Teaching Assistant

Once you’ve started your career as a teaching assistant, it’s important that you continue to develop your skills. It not only enhances your effectiveness in the role but also boosts your career prospects. Here’s how you can further develop:

• Advanced Qualifications

Once you’re well-settled in your role, consider diving deeper with courses like:

• Level 3 Award in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools (RQF)

• Level 3 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools (RQF)

• Level 3 Diploma in Specialist Support for Teaching and Learning in Schools (RQF)

• Continued Learning

Enroll in advanced courses. The world of education is dynamic, and new courses will equip you with current methodologies and teaching practices. Consider pursuing the Level 4 Certificate in Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) (RQF) or even courses in specialised areas, like special needs education.

• Workshops and Seminars

Participate in educational workshops and seminars. They’re often platforms where professionals share insights, trends and the latest research in the education sector. They also serve as great networking opportunities.

Remember, the journey of a teaching assistant is one of consistent learning and adaptation. As you grow in the role, embrace every opportunity to enhance your skills, ensuring you remain an invaluable asset in the classroom.

How can I become a teaching assistant?

There are no mandatory qualifications required to become a teaching assistant. However, earning suitable teaching qualifications will improve your CV and make you a better candidate for the role. Plus, they will also give you the foundational skills and knowledge that will assist you in the job.

The qualifications that can help you towards becoming a teaching assistant include:

• Level 2 Award in Support Work in Schools (RQF)
• Level 2 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools (RQF)
• Level 3 Award in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools (RQF)
• Level 3 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools (RQF)
• Level 3 Diploma in Specialist Support for Teaching and Learning in Schools (RQF)
• Level 4 Certificate in Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) (RQF)

All of the above qualifications can be completed at your pace with CTC Training. The Level 2 Support Work in Schools and the Level 3 Award in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools can be completed without a placement in a school as there is no observation required. The other qualifications will require you to have either a paid or voluntary placement in school, as you will need to be observed in a classroom to complete the course.

Qualifications, licenses and certifications

While there are no mandatory qualifications for becoming a teaching assistant, certain certifications can enhance your employability and effectiveness in the role:

1. Basic educational qualifications

Most schools require teaching assistants to have at least a GCSE grade C or above in English and Maths.

2. Childcare qualifications

Courses like CACHE Level 2 or 3 Certificate in Childcare and Education can be beneficial, especially for those working with younger children.

3. First aid certification

A basic first aid certificate is often useful, especially in early years settings.

4. Safeguarding training

Understanding child protection procedures is crucial for working in schools. Many schools provide this training, but having it in advance can be advantageous.

5. Special educational needs (SEN) qualifications

For those interested in working with children with special needs, additional qualifications can be valuable.

Remember, while these qualifications can boost your prospects, many schools value experience and personal qualities just as much. Always check the specific requirements of the schools you’re interested in working for.

What is a teaching assistant’s average salary?

The salary of a teaching assistant can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and qualifications. However, here’s a general overview of what you might expect:

• Entry-level Teaching Assistant: £11,000 to £18,000 per year
• Experienced Teaching Assistant: £18,000 to £23,000 per year
• Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA): £25,000 to £32,000 per year

It’s important to note that these figures are approximate and can vary significantly. Many teaching assistant roles are part-time or term-time only, which affects the annual salary. For the most up-to-date and accurate salary information, you may want to check our article on teaching assistant salaries and career progression.

Is a teaching assistant job a good fit for me?

A teaching assistant role can be an excellent fit for individuals who:

• Love working with children
• Are patient and empathetic
• Have good communication skills 
• Are flexible and adaptable
• Have a desire to make a difference
• Are interested in education
• Can work as part of a team

Consider the different settings you might work in:

• Special Education

If you have a particular interest in working with children with special educational needs, this could be a rewarding path.

• Elementary/Primary Years

Working with younger children requires energy, creativity and the ability to make learning fun.

• Secondary Education

Assisting in secondary schools might involve more subject-specific support and dealing with the challenges of adolescence.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many hours does a TA work?

The working hours for a teaching assistant can vary depending on the school and the specific role. However, most teaching assistants work during regular school hours, typically from around 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM, Monday to Friday. 

Some key points to consider:

• Many TA positions are part-time, ranging from 25 to 35 hours per week.
• Full-time TAs usually work around 37 hours per week.
• Most TA contracts are term-time only, meaning you’ll have school holidays off.
• Some TAs may be required to work additional hours for after-school clubs, parent evenings or school events.

Can a TA teach a class solo?

While teaching assistants play a crucial role in supporting learning, they are not typically allowed to teach a class solo in the same capacity as a qualified teacher. However, Higher Level Teaching Assistants (HLTAs) may be allowed to cover classes for short periods in the absence of the regular teacher.

Do TAs go to teacher training days?

Yes, teaching assistants typically attend teacher training days, also known as INSET (In-Service Training) days. 

While attendance is usually expected, it’s worth noting that specific arrangements can vary between schools. Some part-time TAs might only attend a portion of the INSET days, depending on their working hours and contract terms.

At CTC Training, we provide a range of online learning qualifications to help you progress into your desired career. Our online courses can be completed from anywhere in the world and on a schedule that suits you. Simply enrol on a course and you’ll gain access to our 247 student portal, where you can access course content and upload assessments at your own pace. You’ll also be assigned a named tutor who will be available to help you throughout the duration of your course.

Enrol today with CTC Training to unlock your potential.