Frequently Asked Questions
How to become a Teaching Assistant
 1. How can I become a Teaching Assistant?
There are several options available to you in order to become a Teaching Assistant. There are distance learning and home study courses such as NVQs, BTECs and Teaching Assistant certificate and diploma courses that will qualify you to work in the classroom.
2. What qualifications do I need to become a Teaching Assistant?
There are many qualifications that will train you for work as a Teaching Assistant. Explore your possibilities and see what suits your lifestyle. Look at work based and work related courses such as NVQs, BTECs, Cache. There are Teaching Assistant certificates and diplomas that you can complete from home.
3. How can I find a Teaching Assistant job?
Speak with your local careers service and find out where the education job vacancies are published in your town or city. Contact your local education authority and recruitment agents. National and local media will often have careers supplements that include Teaching and Teaching Assistant posts. If you are studying for an NVQ or other work based qualification your work placement could turn into paid employment.
4. How will I know that becoming a Teaching Assistant is right for me?
If you enjoy working with children and have the right qualities to become a Teaching Assistant then this is probably a good career move. Explore some volunteer possibilities if you are unsure that working with young people is right for you. This will give you an idea of what life is like as a Teaching or Classroom Assistant.
5. Can I study to be a Teaching Assistant from home?
Yes, you will be able to study from home. Check with your learning provider to see if your Teaching Assistant course is available as distance learning. As a distance learner you will set your own course pace and work either online or in paper format where course materials are sent through the post.
6. How much will it cost for me to become a Teaching Assistant?
Costs will vary dependent on your course provider and the qualifications you choose to take. Expect to pay from around £250 for a Teaching Assistant Diploma or Certificate and from approximately £500 for a BTEC or NVQ. You may be eligible for Government funding and assistance with course fees.
7. What is the payscale for a Teaching Assistant?
Although salaries vary dependent on area and employer, as a Teaching Assistant, you can expect to start at a salary of around £12,000 to £14,000 a year. Experienced Teaching Assistants may earn up to £17,500 per annum.
8. I have never worked with children, can I still become a Teaching Assistant?
Yes, you can become a Teaching Assistant even if you have no experience of working with children. It is however widely acknowledged that to be competetive within the field and have an easier time finding employment, you ought to have gained the relevant experience either through paid or voluntary work. Dependent on the Teaching Assistant course you choose to take you may gain this experience as part of your studies. Enquire with your learning provider.
9. Can I get funding to help me pay for my Teaching Assistant qualification?
Funding possibilities include a bursary which is a loan you do not need to pay back, a loan which you do have to pay back and government funding. Eligibility for funding from the government depends on the course you intend to take and your personal situation such as age and previous study. Check out the Skillsfunding website and the YPLA website to see if you can get assistance with paying for your Teaching Assistant course.
10. What hours will I work as Teaching Assistant?
A full time teaching Assistant will be expected to be in school Monday to Friday working regular school hours – from around 8am until 4pm. You will only work during term time but may be expected to be in school outside of regular hours, for parents evening and or teacher training days. Many Teaching Assistants work part time so be sure to explore your options when looking for employment.
11. What skills and personal qualities do I need to become a Teaching Assistant?
As a Teaching Assistant you will be required to form good working relationships with pupils and the teachers you will be supporting. You ought to be patient and kind but firm when necessary. You will need good literacy and numeracy skills and need to be aware of confidentiality and child protection. The appropriate Teaching Assistant course will ready you for time in the classroom and ensure you have the relevant skills.
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