What Are the Benefits of Having a Teaching Assistant?

Let’s be real: school jobs aren’t always glamorous. But if you’ve ever asked yourself, “What are the benefits of having a teaching assistant?” you’re not alone.

The answer? More than you might think.

Being a teaching assistant (TA) in the UK in 2025 comes with some real perks. It also comes with a few challenges. If you’re thinking about it as a career—or you just want to know what they actually do—this blog’s for you.

We’ll cover the personal pros, the real-world benefits like pensions and holidays, and even the tough bits people don’t always say out loud. You’ll also get a quick self-checklist at the end to help you decide if this role fits your life. Let’s get into it.

What do TAs actually do?

Let’s start with the basics. A teaching assistant supports the teacher and helps the students. That could mean:

• Sitting with a small group to help with reading
• Keeping a pupil calm during a tough moment
• Setting up for lessons
• Handling little tasks that keep the class running smoothly

Some TAs focus on one student. Others work with the whole class. Some even cover lessons if the teacher’s out (more on that later). No two days look the same.

What Are the Benefits of Having a Teaching Assistant?

This isn’t just about the school—it’s about you too. What are the benefits of having a teaching assistant job? Here’s what you get.

You actually help people

You’re not pushing paper or chasing KPIs. You’re helping kids learn, grow, and feel safe. One TA said it best: “You see the difference you make. It keeps you going.”

That’s huge, especially on days when nothing else goes right.

The holidays are unbeatable

Most TAs work term-time only. That means:

• 13 weeks off each year
• All school holidays free
• Evenings and weekends to yourself

Need time with your kids? Want a job that doesn’t eat your life? This is it.

You get a proper pension

If you work in a local authority school, you usually get into the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS). It’s not just a savings pot. It’s a guaranteed monthly income when you retire. You won’t get that in retail or most office jobs. For long-term peace of mind, this is gold.

You have job security

Schools always need TAs. Many TAs stay for years. If your contract is permanent, you’re protected like other school staff. Even on fixed terms, you get legal rights. Unless a school shuts down or faces major cuts, your role is usually safe.

You still get paid sick leave

Get the flu? You don’t lose income. Schools offer occupational sick pay, especially once you’ve been there a while. You also get time off for family emergencies. Plus, maternity and paternity leave rules often go beyond the legal minimum.

The pay is improving (slowly)

You won’t get rich. Let’s not sugar-coat it. But recent pay rises have bumped up salaries. In 2025:

• Entry-level TAs earn around £18,000–£20,000 (full-time)
• Experienced TAs and Higher Level TAs can earn £25,000+
• In London, the average pay is higher—around £23,900

Many roles are part-time, so your take-home pay may be closer to £1,200–£1,500 a month. Still, that’s a steady income, paid all year, even if you don’t work holidays. Learn more about what TA’s are paid in our full blog here.

What is the advantage of TA work?

Let’s shift focus for a sec. What is the advantage of TA work for you as a person—not just your bank account?

You build real skills

You’ll learn to manage behaviour, handle emotions, talk to parents, and adapt lessons. You get confident fast. Those skills transfer to teaching, youth work, social care, and beyond. Some TAs even train in autism support, speech therapy, or language help—paid for by the school.

It’s a springboard job

Want to become a teacher later? This is the best first step. You get classroom experience, support, and a clear view of what teaching really looks like. Many training providers love TA applicants. Some schools even help pay for teacher training.

It works with your life

This job suits parents, career switchers, and students. The hours are steady. You’re home for dinner. You’re off for half-terms. It’s rare to find work this regular outside of education.

Will I earn enough?

Let’s break it down. On average, you’ll take home around £1,300 a month if you’re part-time or up to £1,800–£2,000 if you’re full-time in London or at a senior level. Not amazing, but steady. Add in the pension, paid sick leave, and long holidays—and it’s better than it sounds.

✔ Reality check:

If you’re the sole earner or facing big bills, the salary might not stretch far. Some TAs take second jobs or rely on household income to get by.

Will people treat me like a professional?

Yes—and sometimes no. Teachers often see TAs as essential. So do many parents and kids. But not everyone understands the role. Some people think you “just sit with kids” or “help with glue sticks.” Others forget you manage behaviour, handle meltdowns, and lead groups.

✔ Reality check:

In some schools, TAs get asked to cover full classes—without extra pay or training. That’s a red flag. A good school values you and respects your limits.

Will I get stuck?

You can stay in this job for years—or you can move on. That’s the beauty of it.

• Want to stay? You can become a Higher Level TA, earn more, and lead lessons.
• Want to teach? Your school can help you train.
• Want to shift fields? You’ve got people skills, patience, and crisis management on your CV.

✔ Reality check:

Some TAs feel stuck if their school doesn’t offer training or if they don’t push for it. If you want to grow, speak up early. Ask about CPD (training) options.

Is being a teaching assistant worth it UK?

Let’s tackle this head-on: Is being a teaching assistant worth it UK?

Short answer? Yes—if you know what you’re signing up for.

You get:

• Job stability
• School holidays
• A proper pension
• Skills that open doors
• Work that matters

You don’t get:

• Big pay rises
• Fast promotions
• Total public respect

If you’re in it for the kids, the impact, or the lifestyle—it’s worth it. If you’re chasing high-income or flashy titles, it’s not the right path.

Do schools even value TAs?

Yes—more than ever. Schools rely on TAs to:

• Support students with extra needs
• Keep behaviour calm
• Run small group sessions
• Free up teachers for focused work

In many places, schools can’t function without TAs. Headteachers call them “essential.” Ofsted often praises schools that train and support their TAs.

Should I become a TA?

Time for some honest self-reflection. If you’re nodding at most of these, the role could be a great fit.

Self-Assessment Checklist

Do I…

• Want a job where I help others?
• Like the idea of school hours and holidays?
• Have patience with kids or teens?
• Enjoy learning and trying new things?
• Want a way into teaching or youth work?
• Value a job with structure and clear goals?
• Handle challenges without losing my cool?

If you said yes to 5 or more, becoming a TA might be exactly what you need.

Final thoughts

So, what are the benefits of having a teaching assistant? More than people give credit for. You won’t earn millions. But you’ll earn meaning. You’ll work steady hours. You’ll get paid holidays and a real pension. You’ll see the impact of your work every single day.

And most importantly—you’ll matter.

Ready to look into TA roles near you? Check local schools, council job boards, and trusted sites like Tes or Indeed. Your next job might be one that actually makes a difference.

Unlock your potential in education—join Wise Campus and become the teaching assistant every classroom needs. Enrol online in our Teaching Assistant courses now and make a real difference!