Teachers Assistant Pay Rise 2025: NJC, Term-Time & London Allowances

Good news! Teachers assistant pay rise kicks in from 1 April 2025. TAs get 3.2% more, starting at £24,413 full-time. Schools pro-rate term-time contracts and pay you for the weeks you actually work. Most TAs in England and Wales on council terms will receive this increase. Extras like London weighting and other allowances usually rise too. Some councils may add back pay later, so check your payslip.

Teachers Assistant Pay Rise 2025

Here’s something to smile about! Teacher assistants get a pay rise from 1 April 2025. Everyone will see 3.2% added to their salary. If you’re starting full-time, the usual pay is now £24,413.

If you’re on a term-time contract, don’t worry—schools pro-rate your pay. That means they pay you for the weeks you’re actually at school, spread across the year. Your payslip might look smaller, but you still get everything you’re owed.

NJC Pay Award 2025: What Actually Changed

Here’s the scoop on the latest NJC pay award for teacher assistants. All the standard pay points are going up by 3.2%, starting from 1 April 2025. That means your salary will automatically get a little boost.

Some councils may take longer to add back pay, so don’t worry if it doesn’t show on your payslip. The rise applies to almost all TAs on council contracts in England and Wales. Part-time or term-time TAs still get it, pro-rated for the weeks worked.

So, more money in your pocket without extra work! Just check your payslip to make sure everything adds up.

Who Qualifies for the TA Pay Rise in 2025?

Most teacher assistants in England and Wales on council contracts will get the 3.2% pay rise. This applies to full-time, part-time, and term-time roles—you’ll just get it pro-rated if you don’t work the full year.

Academies and sixth-form colleges often follow the council rates, but they don’t always. It’s smart to check with your school so you know exactly what you’ll get.

Scotland and Northern Ireland set their own pay deals, so the rise might not apply there. Always read your contract or ask HR to make sure you’re getting everything you’re owed.

Term-Time Only Pay for TAs

If you work term-time only, schools pay you for the weeks you’re actually in school, plus holiday pay. They spread your pay across the whole year, which can make your salary look smaller on your payslip. Your contract lists the exact weeks and hours you’ll get paid for, so you always know what’s coming in.

London Weighting & Local Allowances for Teaching Assistants 

London is split into three zones:

1.  Inner London
2.  Outer London
3.  Fringe 

Each zone gets a set extra payment.

If you’re part-time or only work term-time, schools will adjust it so you get paid for the hours and weeks you actually work. This allowance is taxable and usually counts towards your pension, but it’s always worth checking your contract. It normally goes up each year with the NJC pay award, unless your council says otherwise. There are other extras too, like SEN pay, first-aid, duty or lunch cover, clubs, unsocial hours, or market supplements.

Teaching Assistant Payslip Checklist (April 2025)

Before you relax, take a quick look at your payslip to make sure everything’s right.

• Confirm your new pay point starts from 1 April 2025.
• Make sure your 3.2% pay rise has been added.
• Ensure any back pay is included.
• Verify that your allowances have increased.
• Check that the hours and weeks match what’s in your contract.

2026 TA Pay Changes: What’s Coming Next

Lowest starting salary changes:

The NJC updates the lowest TA pay point every year. This means in 2026, new starters should get a higher salary than in 2025. So, new TAs get a bit more money right from the start. However, the exact figure will be confirmed once the NJC publishes it.

Automatic pay point adjustments:

If you’re already a TA on a council or academy contract, your pay will update automatically. You don’t need to ask for anything. This way, your salary will match the new NJC rates. Just make sure to check your payslip early in 2026 to confirm it’s correct.

Applies to all contract types:

Full-time, part-time, and term-time roles all get the rise. For example, schools adjust term-time pay based on the weeks you actually work. Even part-time TAs get the increase, so everyone gets a fair boost.

Allowances:

Extras like London weighting, SEN pay, duty cover, or unsocial hours might go up too. The exact amount depends on your school or council policy. Always check your payslip to confirm that you’ve received any back pay or extra pay.

How the Pay Rise Affects Your Budget

Even a 3.2% pay rise can make a real difference in your pocket. Let’s break down how to make the most of it:

• Extra cash each month: Term-time pay can make your monthly salary look smaller, but don’t worry—schools pay you for every week you work. You still get all your money; it’s just spread out. Use it for bills, treats, or whatever makes life easier.
• Boost with allowances: London weighting, SEN pay, first-aid, or covering duties can add even more to your pay. Keep an eye on what applies to you so you know exactly what’s coming in.
• Back pay surprise: Some councils hand out back pay later, which can land as a nice lump sum. Save a little, clear a bill, or treat yourself—make it count!
• Budget like a pro: Even small pay rises add up fast. Adjust your budget, track spending, and consider putting extra cash into savings or training to level up your skills.

A little planning goes a long way. This pay rise isn’t just more money—it’s extra control over your cash and your future.

Union & HR Action Plan: What to Do If Your Pay Rise Doesn’t Show Up

Let’s be real—sometimes payroll doesn’t get it right straight away. If you check your April payslip and that shiny 3.2% boost isn’t there, don’t panic. Here’s a simple action plan to keep things stress-free:

• Step 1: Double-check your NJC pay spine point:Grab your contract or last payslip. Find the pay spine point you’re on. Then look at the updated NJC pay scale for 2025. That’s the number your new salary should match.
• Step 2: Ask HR or payroll for a breakdown: If it’s not adding up, go straight to HR or the school’s payroll team. Just say something like, “Could you help me understand how my new pay point has been calculated?” Most of the time, it’s just a delay or a simple error.
• Step 3: Contact your union rep: Still no joy? That’s when your union rep steps in. Send them your pay spine point and any codes from your payslip. They’ll know exactly how to push things forward and make sure you get what you’re owed.

Remember, you’ve worked hard for this rise. Don’t be shy about chasing it up—you absolutely deserve every penny.

Extra Income Opportunities Beyond the 3.2% Rise

Okay, so the 3.2% boost is a nice win. But here’s the good news—you don’t have to stop there. Lots of teaching assistants earn more by taking on extra roles. Think of it as giving your payslip a little extra sparkle.

• First-aid or SEN responsibility: Schools often pay extra if you’re trained in first aid or if you support pupils with special educational needs. It’s not just more money—it’s a chance to make an even bigger difference.

• Clubs and cover: Running breakfast clubs, after-school sessions, or stepping in for lunchtime duty can top up your income. These hours add up, and so does the pay.

• Step up to HLTA (Higher Level Teaching Assistant): If you’re ready for more responsibility, moving up to HLTA means a higher pay band. Yes, it’s a step up in workload, but the recognition—and the pay rise—can be worth it.

The bottom line? You’ve got options. Your base salary goes up with the NJC rise, but saying yes to extra roles can really change the number you see on your payslip.

FAQs

Will teaching assistants get the pay rise?

• Yes, most TAs in England and Wales on council contracts will get the 3.2% pay rise.

Who is getting a 5.5% pay rise?

• The 5.5% rise applies to some support staff under specific NJC agreements, not standard TAs.

What is a TA hourly rate?

• It depends on your level and hours, but starting full-time is around £24,413 yearly, pro-rated for term-time roles.

Has support staff pay been agreed in 2025?

• Yes, NJC approved a 3.2% pay rise for most TAs and support staff from 1 April 2025.

Are we getting a pay rise in April 2025?

• Yes, the 3.2% increase takes effect from 1 April 2025 for eligible TAs.

What is the proposed pay increase for 2025?

• The approved pay rise for TAs is 3.2%, with pro-rated amounts for term-time roles.

Final Thoughts

The teachers assistant pay rise is good news for most TAs in England and Wales. That 3.2% boost, along with term-time adjustments and extra allowances like London weighting or SEN pay, means a bit more money in your pocket. Just check your payslip and contract to make sure everything matches up.

Some changes are coming soon too. The lowest starting salary might go up, and councils will automatically move TAs to the right pay point. Allowances could rise as well, so keeping an eye on your pay is always a good idea.

Want to take your TA career further? Join the Teaching Assistant Course at Wise Campus and make the most of your skills while staying on top of pay changes.