Teaching Assistant Jobs in the UK

Teaching assistants, often called TAs or learning support assistants, support the class teacher by preparing materials, working with small groups, listening to children read and helping pupils who need extra support to keep up. Some TAs work one-to-one with a pupil who has an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). Higher level teaching assistants (HLTAs) can lead lessons and cover classes. SEN teaching assistants work with pupils with autism, ADHD, learning difficulties or physical disabilities, often in specialist schools.

You do not always need qualifications to start, although many schools ask for GCSEs in English and maths at grade 4 (C) or above. Teaching assistant qualifications at level 2 or 3 are helpful, and experience with children, whether through volunteering, childcare, youth work or as a parent helper, makes your application stronger. All school roles require an enhanced DBS check.

The listings on this page include full time, part time and term-time-only roles. Because many TA contracts are paid only for term weeks, salaries are often shown as a full time equivalent and then adjusted for hours and weeks worked, so check the actual pay in each advert. Supply and agency TA work is another flexible option.

If you are new to schools, volunteering for a few weeks as a reading helper or classroom volunteer can help you understand the role and gain a reference. At interview, expect questions on safeguarding, behaviour management and how you would support a child who is struggling, so think about examples from your own experience.

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