What does a Teaching Assistant do?
A Teaching Assistant works with Teachers to conduct multiple classes at school. They also work with students to assist them with their class activities, they help manage class behaviour and supervise students during school events and outings. Many Teaching Assistants work part-time hours and their schedule is often from Monday to Friday. If necessary, they may need to work on weekends or evenings to assist Teachers during special events.
Teaching Assistant skills and qualifications
A successful Teaching Assistant candidate will have various prerequisite skills and qualifications needed to do the job well, these include:
- Ability to communicate clearly with Teachers and younger individuals
- Ability to create an encouraging learning environment for pupils
- Active listening skills
- Understanding and sensitivity towards children
- Excellent knowledge of lessons that pupils are required to learn in class
- Ability to carry out tasks involving a computer or hand-device
- Ability to remain calm during stressful situations
- Willingness to work on different activities conducted inside and outside school premises
- A Bachelor’s Degree in Education or related field
Teaching Assistant experience requirements
An ideal Teaching Assistant candidate must be able to demonstrate work experience related to the job. This can include previous employment in another school or educational institution. It may also help if a Teaching Assistant has experience working with children in a particular grade level. For instance, a candidate applying to become a Teacher Assistant for Year 2 pupils must have already supervised Year 2 children previously.
Teaching Assistant education and training requirements
An ideal Teaching Assistant candidate should have the education and training requirements needed for the position, these may include further or higher education certifications from college including a T level in Education, a Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education or a Level 2 or 3 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools. In addition, a candidate must have at least two General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSEs) at grades 9 to 3 for a Level 2 course or a minimum of four GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 for a Level 3 course or a T level. A Bachelor’s Degree in Education or a related field is also a plus.
Teaching Assistant salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a Teaching Assistant is £70.03 per day . However, a Teaching Assistant candidate’s starting salary may vary depending on the level of experience, location of the job and the company.
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