What Teaching Assistant Do: A Day in the Life and Why It Matters

Behind every confident child is someone who believes in them. That someone is often a teaching assistant. We see teachers at the front of the room, leading lessons. But right beside them, there’s another kind of guide. Teaching assistants (TAs) play a big role in shaping how children learn and grow. They help lessons run smoothly. They give quiet support when a child feels lost. And they do much more than most people realise. This blog will show what teaching assistant do, why it matters, and why this role deserves more love.

What Is a Teaching Assistant?

A teaching assistant helps the teacher and supports pupils in class. They’re not just helpers—they’re key to making schools work.

Some TAs work with the whole class. Others give one-on-one help or focus on pupils with special needs.

There are a few types of TAs:

• General TAs: Work with the whole class and assist with day-to-day tasks.
• SEN TAs: Support pupils with special educational needs (SEND).
• 1:1 Support TAs: Focus on helping one pupil throughout the day.

Each of them brings something special to the classroom.

Key Duties and Responsibilities – What Teaching Assistant Do

When people ask about teaching assistant roles, they often don’t realise how wide the job is. TAs do a bit of everything.

Supporting learning: TAs work with small groups or individuals. They explain things in simple ways. They repeat what the teacher says and make sure pupils understand.

Classroom management: TAs help keep the class calm and focused. They spot signs when pupils feel upset or distracted and act fast.

One-on-one support: Some pupils need more time or attention. TAs guide these pupils step-by-step through their tasks. This can make a big difference.

SEN support: Many children have needs that go beyond learning. TAs support pupils with autism, ADHD, learning delays, and more. They help pupils feel safe and seen.

Preparing resources: TAs print worksheets, set up tasks, and create displays. They make learning spaces more fun and useful.

These duties change each day. But one thing stays the same: TAs are always helping others do their best.

Inside a Typical Day

So, what does a normal day look like? Let’s break it down:

• 8:15 AM – Arrival: TAs check lesson plans and set up materials.
• 8:45 AM – Morning routine: Greet pupils, help with coats and bags, and settle them in.
• 9:00 AM – Class support: Sit with small groups or help the class focus during lessons.
• 10:30 AM – Break: Watch over playtime, help with first aid or comfort pupils.
• 11:00 AM – Group work: Run reading or phonics groups. Help a pupil finish their writing.
• 12:00 PM – Lunch duties: Supervise lunch or help pupils with eating, especially in SEN settings.
• 1:00 PM – Afternoon lessons: Help with practical tasks—art, science, or PE.
• 2:30 PM – One-on-one catch-up: Spend time with a pupil who needs more help.
• 3:15 PM – End of day: Pack up, help pupils with coats, and talk with the teacher.

Some days feel long, but they’re full of moments that matter.

The Skills That Make a Great TA

No two TAs are the same, but the best ones share some key traits:

• Patience: Learning takes time. TAs stay calm, even when things go slow.
• Empathy: They notice when a child feels left out or stuck. And they offer help with care.
• Clear communication: TAs explain things in simple steps. They listen, guide, and cheer pupils on.
• Organisation: From preparing work to managing time, TAs keep things running.
• Flexibility: Things change fast in schools. Great TAs adjust without stress.
• Child development know-how: They spot signs if something isn’t right. They know when to speak up.

These skills turn support into success—for pupils and teachers.

Do Teaching Assistants Teach?

People often ask: do TAs teach? The answer is yes—and no.

TAs don’t plan whole lessons. They don’t grade work or lead classes full-time. But they do a lot of hands-on teaching.

They:

• Lead small reading or maths groups
• Explain tasks one-on-one
• Model writing or speech
• Run intervention sessions for struggling pupils

Some advanced TAs, called HLTAs (Higher Level Teaching Assistants), even cover whole classes when the teacher is away. So, while they don’t replace teachers, they’re a strong teaching force.

Career Progression and Qualifications

So, how do you become a teaching assistant? You don’t need a degree. But you do need the right mindset and basic skills.

Most schools ask for the following:

• GCSEs in English and Maths
• Some experience with children (volunteering or childcare)
• A background check (DBS)

Some jobs need a Level 2 or 3 TA qualification. Others offer training while you work. There are also special courses for SEN or HLTA roles.

Many people use this job to grow. Some become teachers. Others train in speech therapy or special education. If you love helping children, this path gives you options.

Why TAs Are Vital to Schools

What teaching assistant do every day makes a real difference.

• For pupils: They feel seen. They get help when things are hard. They learn with more confidence.
• For teachers: TAs free up time. They help with tasks so teachers can focus on planning and teaching.
• For inclusion: TAs help schools welcome pupils with all kinds of needs. No child is left out.

When TAs are valued, schools thrive.

Final Thoughts: Is Being a TA Right for You?

If this sounds like your path, why not take the first step? Courses like a Teaching Assistant course from Wise Campus help you train while you work. You’ll gain skills, confidence, and a clear path to the job.

Let’s raise the value of this role. Let’s lift up those who lift up others. Because behind every confident child is someone who cared enough to stand beside them. That someone could be you.