What Qualifications Do You Need to Be a Teaching Assistant?

What qualifications do you need to be a teaching assistant? It’s a very normal question, especially when you’re trying to choose the right career. The good news is that the path is clear and not overwhelming. You can start even if you have never worked in a classroom before. And with the right steps, you can grow quickly in this role.

Teaching assistants play a big role in UK classrooms. In 2024, England had around 288,800 full-time-equivalent TAs. That number shows how much pupils rely on daily support. So, as you move forward, let’s explore what schools look for and how you can prepare with confidence.

In this guide, we break down what it takes to become a teaching assistant. You’ll learn about the courses, training, and skills needed, the role of experience, and how to prepare to work confidently in a classroom. By the end, you’ll understand the steps to start and grow in this rewarding career.

What Does a Teaching Assistant Do?

A teaching assistant does many helpful things each day. They stay close to pupils, support learning, and bring calm and confidence to the classroom. The work feels meaningful, and each small moment can make a big difference. Here are the key things they do:

• Support pupils during lessons so learning feels easier and less stressful.
• Help small groups who need extra guidance.
• Work with children who have SEND and give them patient, steady support.
• Keep classroom resources tidy and ready for the teacher.
• Help keep pupils safe and follow all safeguarding rules.
• Communicate clearly with teachers, pupils, and sometimes parents.

Altogether, the role needs kindness, trust, and good teamwork — and that is what makes it such a rewarding job.

What Qualifications Do You Need to Be a Teaching Assistant?

It helps to know what qualifications you need before you start. There is no strict national rule, so the path feels open and friendly. But most schools still want a few basic things. These small steps help you feel ready for the role. They also help the school trust that you can support children well.

Here are the things employers usually ask for:

• Good English and maths, often GCSE level. Some schools accept Functional Skills as well.
• A TA qualification, like Level 2 or Level 3. These courses teach you classroom skills, child development, and how to support learning.
• A DBS check, so the school knows you can work safely with children.
• Basic safeguarding training, which helps you understand how to protect pupils.
• Some experience with children, even if it is volunteering in a school or helping in a youth group. This shows you understand how children behave and learn.

These requirements are simple and clear. And once you have them, you can step into a classroom with confidence, kindness, and the excitement of helping children learn each day.

And if you want everything explained in a simple, friendly way, I honestly recommend having a look at this blog from Wise Campus: “Teaching Assistant Requirements: What You Need to Know to Start Your Career in Education.” It breaks everything down so clearly, and it’s really helpful if you want to understand the whole process without feeling overwhelmed.

Do You Need GCSEs to Become a Teaching Assistant?

Many people worry about GCSEs when they think about this job. But you do not need to feel stressed. Most schools ask for 5 GCSEs (grades 9–4). This usually includes English and Maths. These subjects help because you will support pupils with reading, writing, and basic number work.

Some schools accept Functional Skills instead of GCSEs. This can make things easier if you learned later in life. And some entry-level or Level 2 roles are more flexible. They may take you if you show a good attitude, a caring nature, and a willingness to learn.

You should always check the job advert. Every school sets its own rules. But even if you do not have the exact grades, you can still build your skills, train, or take a short course. There is always a way forward if you care about helping children.

What Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 TA Courses Mean

When you look at TA training, you will see Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 courses. This can feel confusing at first. But each level has a clear role. And once you understand them, choosing becomes much easier.

Level 1

• A gentle introduction to working in schools.
• Helps you learn the basics and understand the TA role.
• Great if you are brand new or want to build confidence.
  

Level 2

• Teaches the foundation “Supporting Teaching and Learning” skills.
• Shows you how to help pupils and follow the teacher’s plans.
• Helps you support lessons and keep the classroom calm and safe.
  

Level 3

• Gives advanced classroom support skills.
• Often seen as the benchmark for higher-responsibility TA roles.
• Also offered as the Level 3 Teaching Assistant apprenticeship, so you can train while working.

Each level helps you grow step by step. And with every stage, you feel more ready to support pupils with care and confidence.

Can You Become a Teaching Assistant with No Experience?

Yes, you can become a teaching assistant with no experience. Many schools still welcome you if you show a caring attitude and a willingness to learn. Here is how it usually works:

• Schools often hire trainee TAs with basic qualifications.
• They look for a kind, patient attitude more than long experience.
• They train you while you work, so you learn step by step.
• You can work towards a Level 2 or Level 3 TA course.
• The Level 3 Teaching Assistant apprenticeship lets you earn and learn at the same time.

So even if you are new, you still have a clear path. With the right mindset, you can grow into the role with confidence.

Do You Need a DBS Check to Work as a Teaching Assistant?

Yes, you need a DBS check to work as a teaching assistant. You work very closely with children, so the school must make sure you are safe and trusted. This protects pupils and also protects you while you work.

Schools ask for an enhanced DBS check, which is the most detailed type. It shows if you have any criminal history that may affect work with children. You may also join the DBS Update Service, which makes future checks easier and faster.

You also need safeguarding training. This training teaches you how to notice signs of harm, how to report concerns, and how to follow school rules. When you start a new job, the school will give you a safeguarding refresher so you understand their policies.

What Extra Training Helps Teaching Assistants?

Extra training can help you do your job better and feel more confident in the classroom. Many Level 2 and Level 3 TA courses include some of these skills, but you can also learn them separately. Here are the most useful areas:

• Safeguarding and Prevent – teaches you how to keep children safe. You learn how to spot signs of abuse or neglect and how to report concerns.

• First aid – shows you how to help in accidents or emergencies. You learn basic first aid for cuts, falls, or choking.

• Autism and SEND strategies – helps you support children with different learning needs or disabilities. You learn ways to make lessons easier for them.

• Speech and language support – helps children who find talking, listening, or understanding hard. You learn simple activities to improve their communication.

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Training Online – teaches ways to manage challenging behaviour. You learn how to encourage good behaviour and keep the classroom calm.

With this extra training, you become more confident, capable, and ready to support every child. It also shows schools that you care and want to do the job well.

Do Schools Provide On-the-Job Training for TAs?

Yes, most schools provide on-the-job training for teaching assistants. When you start a new role, you usually get an induction. This shows you the school rules, daily routines, and how to keep children safe. It also helps you understand your role and what is expected.

After induction, you get role-specific training. This can include how to support learning, help with special needs, manage behaviour, and use classroom resources. It gives you the confidence to work with pupils every day.

If you choose an apprenticeship route, it blends practical work in the classroom with off-the-job learning. You also complete an end-point assessment to show that you have learned the necessary skills. A Level 3 apprenticeship usually lasts 12–18 months. During this time, you:

• Gain real classroom experience.
• Learn how to support teachers and pupils effectively.
• Build confidence in handling challenging situations.
• Develop extra skills like safeguarding, SEND support, and communication strategies.

This kind of training is ideal for people new to schools. It helps you grow step by step and become a skilled, confident teaching assistant.

What Qualifications Do You Need to Progress as a TA?

If you want to grow as a teaching assistant, some qualifications can help you take on more work and new opportunities.

• Level 3 TA – This allows you to support larger groups or even the whole class. You learn more advanced classroom skills. You also gain confidence in helping the teacher manage lessons.
  
• HLTA (Higher Level Teaching Assistant) status – This qualification lets you cover classes when a teacher is away. You take on extra responsibility and follow national HLTA standards. You also learn leadership and planning skills.
  
• Further progression – Many TAs use their experience and qualifications to train as teachers later. You can study for a teaching degree or a postgraduate course. This opens the door to becoming a fully qualified teacher.

As you gain these qualifications, you will have more opportunities in schools. You also make a bigger difference to children’s learning and growth. Step by step, your confidence, skills, and career prospects grow.

Final Thoughts: Getting the Right Qualifications to Become a Teaching Assistant

Being a teaching assistant is more than a job. It’s a chance to help children every day and make a real difference. You don’t need a lot of experience to start, and the qualifications are easy to get. With patience, kindness, and the right training, you can feel confident in the classroom.

If you want to start this journey, Wise Campus has a Teaching Assistant course that can help you. It teaches all the skills you need, from assisting pupils in lessons to supporting children with special needs. You can learn step by step and gain the confidence to succeed.

Starting as a teaching assistant is a great choice. Every small step you take helps children learn and grow—and helps you build a rewarding career.

FAQs

1. Can I work as a teaching assistant with no qualifications?

Yes, you can start as a teaching assistant without formal qualifications. Some schools hire friendly, caring people and train them while they work.

2. What qualifications are required to be a teacher’s assistant?

You can take a Certificate III in School-Based Education Support (CHC30221) to get ready for entry-level teaching assistant jobs.

3. How much does a TA get paid?

Level 2 teaching assistants usually earn £18,000–£20,000 a year. With Level 3 or SEN skills, pay can go up to £25,000. Higher Level TAs (HLTAs) can earn £22,500–£29,000 depending on experience.

4. How long does a TA qualification take?

A TA qualification usually takes a few weeks to a year. Most people finish it in 5–6 months.

5. Is being a TA a stressful job?

Being a TA can be stressful, especially when supporting students with SEND or challenging behaviour. Managing teachers, students, and parents can also add pressure.