Teaching Assistant Roles in the UK: Responsibilities, Qualifications, and Career Progression

Teaching assistants (TAs) are very important to the education system in the UK because they help teachers and students in important ways. In response to the changing needs of schools and students, their jobs have changed a lot, especially in the last few years. This piece goes into detail about the many teaching assistant roles they take on, the skills they need, how much they are paid, and how they can move up in their careers.

Understanding the Role of a Teaching Assistant

Assisting teachers in giving good lessons, teaching aids do the following:

• Assisting with lesson planning and instruction: Arranging teaching aids and lessons.
• Working with children who require additional assistance, those who have special educational needs (SEN)
• Regulating student conduct to keep the classroom orderly for learning.
• Administrative chores include things like keeping records and putting resources in order.

Because they are often the link between students and teachers, TAs need to be patient, flexible, and good at communicating.

Qualifications and Entry Requirements

To become a TA in the UK, there isn’t a set qualification, but most schools expect:

• Usually, you need GCSE English and Maths with grades between A* and C (9–4).
• The Level 2 or Level 3 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning is relevant.
• Better DBS check: To make sure kids are safe.

Apprenticeships or volunteer work are ways for some people to get into the field and gain experience that can lead to full-time jobs.

Salary Expectations

Teaching assistant salaries vary based on experience, qualifications, and location. As of May 2025:

1. Average daily rate: £91.52.
2. Annual salary range:

• Level 1 TAs: Starting around £17,000.
  
• Level 2 TAs: £18,000 to £20,000.
  
• Level 3 TAs: Up to £25,000, especially with SEN responsibilities
  

Keep in mind that a lot of TAs only work during the academic year, which can change how much they make yearly.

Career Progression Opportunities

Working as a TA can help you get into several different educational careers, such as:

• Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA): As they receive more training, TAs can take on more duties, such as teaching classes.
• Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO): For those specialising in supporting students with SEN.
• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS): Some TAs pursue further education to become fully qualified teachers .

Professional growth is encouraged constantly, and there are many courses and certifications that can help you advance in your work.

Real-Life Example: Amy Atkins’ Journey

Introducing Amy Atkins, a 32-year-old Alexander McLeod Primary School teaching assistant apprentice. When her own children started school, she developed a new interest in education and applied to Inspire ATA. Amy’s story serves as an excellent illustration of how simple it can be for anyone wishing to change careers or return to the workforce to work as a teaching assistant.

The Changing Role of Teaching Assistants

In the past few years, TAs have taken on more duties and often filled in for teachers when they were unavailable. This makes them even more important, but it also raises concerns about their growing responsibilities and how they’re recognised. A study found that many TAs are now doing things that aren’t part of their normal jobs. This clearly shows why clear job descriptions and fair pay are so important.

Conclusion of Teaching Assistant Roles

Teaching assistants are very important to the education system in the UK because they help teachers and students do their jobs better. It’s a rewarding job for people who are passionate about education because there are chances to move up in the field and make a difference in kids’ lives. As their jobs change, though, it’s important to ensure that TAs get the credit, training, and pay they earn.

Explore Diverse Teaching Assistant Roles with Wise Campus

Our online Teaching Assistant course from Wise Campus will help you understand the wide range of teaching assistant roles and equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to excel.