How To Become a Teaching Assistant: A Simple Guide

Do you love working with children and want to help them learn? Becoming a teaching assistant could be the perfect job for you! In this guide, we’ll explain what you need to do and how you can start this rewarding career.

What Does a Teaching Assistant Do?

Teaching assistants (TAs) help teachers in the classroom. Their work includes:

• Assisting students with their schoolwork.
• Getting lessons and materials ready.
• Supporting students who need extra help, like those with special needs.

TAs make the classroom a better place for learning.

Why Become a Teaching Assistant?

Here are some reasons to choose this career:

• Feel good: You’ll make a difference in students’ lives.
• Grow your skills: It’s a significant step toward becoming a teacher.
• Many options: You can work in primary, secondary, or with children who need extra support.

Steps to Become a Teaching Assistant

Step-1: Get the Right Qualifications

Most schools require a high school diploma or equivalent. For better chances, consider:

• A Level 2 or 3 Teaching Assistant Certificate.
• Online courses that teach you about supporting students and classroom management.

Step-2: Learn Important Skills

Good teaching assistants are:

• Great communicators: They work well with teachers, students, and parents.
• Patient and kind: They understand children’s needs.
• Organised: They help keep the classroom running smoothly.

Step-3: Get Experience

Experience is significant. You can:

• Volunteer at a local school.
• Help with kids at community centres or clubs.
• Take part in internships while studying.

Step-4: Earn a Certificate

A teaching assistant certificate shows you’re serious about this career. You can earn one through online courses like the ones at Wise Campus, which are flexible and recognised.

What Will You Do as a Teaching Assistant?

Your daily tasks might include:

• Helping students learn, especially those who need extra support.
• Assisting the teacher with lesson plans.
• Supervising students during breaks or activities.

With more training, you can take on more prominent roles, like running lessons as a higher-level teaching assistant (HLTA).

How Much Can You Earn?

Teaching assistants earn different amounts depending on their experience:

• Beginner TAs in the UK: £14,000–£21,000 per year.
• Experienced TAs or HLTAs: Up to £29,000 per year.

How to Grow in Your Career

A teaching assistant job can lead to other opportunities:

1. Become a Teacher: Use your TA experience to train as a qualified teacher.
2. Specialise: Focus on helping children with special needs (SEN) or early years education.
3. Advance Your Role: Train for higher-level jobs like HLTA or school leadership roles.
4. Explore Ed-Tech: Work on creating new educational tools and technology.

Finding Teaching Assistant Jobs

Here’s how to start your job search:

• Look online: Check sites like Indeed or Teaching Vacancies.
• Network: Talk to teachers and school staff in your area.
• Apply with confidence: Highlight your skills and experience on your resume.

Why Choose Online Courses?

Online courses are a great way to learn. They’re flexible so that you can study anytime. Plus, programs like those from Wise Campus are recognised and can boost your career.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Becoming a teaching assistant is an excellent way to work with children and make a difference. Start by earning your certificate, gaining experience, and applying for jobs. You’ll be on your way to a rewarding career in no time!