Do i need qualifications to be a teaching assistant? Quick answer: You don’t always need formal qualifications to start as a teaching assistant in the UK. Most schools want good English and maths skills, some experience with children, and a DBS check. But a Level 2 or Level 3 teaching assistant course makes it easier to get hired and earn more.
What Is a Teaching Assistant?
A teaching assistant (TA) works in a classroom to support teachers and help pupils learn. The role is sometimes called a classroom assistant or learning support assistant. TAs help with lessons, small group work, and extra support for children who need it. Many also help with playground duty, trips, and after-school clubs. In short, they make sure the teacher can focus on teaching while pupils get the support they need.
What Does a Teaching Assistant Do?
A TA’s daily tasks cover a lot. Here are the most common teaching assistant responsibilities:
- Support children in lessons, especially those who struggle.
- Help the teacher manage behaviour and keep pupils focused.
- Listen to children read or run small group activities.
- Prepare materials, tidy classrooms, and set up displays.
- Give one-to-one support to pupils with extra needs.
- Supervise children at lunch or on trips.
- Report progress and concerns to teachers.
Some teaching assistants specialise in SEN (special educational needs). SEN TAs support children with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, or learning and behaviour challenges.
Do I Need Qualifications to Be a Teaching Assistant?
This is the big question. The short answer is no, you don’t always need formal qualifications to start. Many schools hire entry-level TAs who have good GCSEs and a willingness to learn. However, having a qualification like a Level 2 or Level 3 teaching assistant course improves your chances of success.
Schools want proof that you can support children, communicate well, and manage learning tasks. A recognised course shows you have those skills. So while you can start without one, training helps you stand out and often leads to better pay.
What Qualifications Do You Need to Be a Teaching Assistant in the UK?
Most schools look for these minimum teaching assistant requirements:
- GCSE English and maths at grade 4 (C) or above.
- Experience with children. This can be volunteering, childcare, youth work, or parenting.
- A DBS check. All school staff need this to work with children.
Optional but highly recommended qualifications include:
- Level 2 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning.
- Level 3 Diploma in Supporting Teaching and Learning.
- Apprenticeships that combine study with paid school work.
What GCSEs Do You Need to Be a Teaching Assistant?
The essential GCSEs are English and maths. Some schools may ask for science too, especially for primary TAs. If you don’t have GCSEs, you can often use functional skills or equivalent qualifications.
Can I Be a Teaching Assistant Without Qualifications?
Yes, you can. Many schools hire unqualified TAs if you show the right skills and enthusiasm. You might start in a support role, gain experience, then complete a Level 2 or Level 3 course while working.
How Do I Become a Teaching Assistant with No Experience or Qualifications?
Start small. Here’s how:
- Volunteer at a local school. Listening to children read counts as a valuable experience.
- Join youth groups or sports clubs as a helper. That experience works on your CV.
- Take an online TA course. Even a short one shows commitment.
- Apply for apprentice roles. These give you paid school experience plus training.
What Volunteering Counts as Experience for a Teaching Assistant Job?
Schools value any experience where you work with children. This includes:
- Helping at after-school clubs.
- Volunteering at Scouts, Brownies, or sports teams.
- Summer camps or holiday play schemes.
- Sunday schools or community groups.
- Reading buddy programmes.
All of these show you can engage with children and support learning.
Do I Need English and Maths to Be a Teaching Assistant?
Yes. You need strong literacy and numeracy skills. Most schools ask for GCSE English and maths or an equivalent. Without them, you may struggle to get hired. You can study functional skills as an alternative if needed.
Do I Need a DBS Check to Work as a Teaching Assistant?
Absolutely. Safeguarding is vital in schools. Every TA must have a clear DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check in England and Wales. In Scotland, it’s the PVG scheme. In Northern Ireland, it’s AccessNI. Schools arrange this before you start.
What Safeguarding Training Do Teaching Assistants Need?
All TAs must complete safeguarding training. Schools provide this when you start. Topics include:
- Child protection.
- Keeping children safe online.
- Health and safety.
- Prevent duty (extremism awareness).
For SEN roles, extra training like Team-Teach or Makaton may be offered.
Which Teaching Assistant Course Should I Take: Level 2 or Level 3?
This depends on your background.
- Level 2 is for beginners. It covers the basics and gets you into entry roles.
- Level 3 is for those with some experience. It allows you to take on more responsibility and often pays more.
Is Level 2 Enough to Get a Teaching Assistant Job?
Yes, Level 2 is often enough for a first job. Many schools hire Level 2 TAs and later encourage them to move up to Level 3.
Do I Need Level 3 for SEN or EYFS Teaching Assistant Roles?
Not always. Some SEN or early years roles ask for Level 3, but others hire Level 2 candidates. Experience with children is often more important than qualifications in these jobs.
What’s the Difference Between Level 2 and Level 3 Teaching Assistant?
- Level 2: Entry-level, support tasks, small groups, basic classroom help.
- Level 3: More advanced, may lead small lessons, handle SEN tasks, and support teachers in planning.
Is the Level 3 Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship Worth It?
Yes. The apprenticeship gives you a wage while training. It usually takes 18 months. You earn, gain school experience, and get a recognised qualification.
Can I Get Paid While Training as a Teaching Assistant?
Yes, if you do an apprenticeship. You’ll earn at least the apprentice minimum wage while studying. Some schools also support staff through training while employed.
Are Online Teaching Assistant Qualifications Accepted by Schools?
Yes, as long as the course is Ofqual-regulated. Always check if the provider lists a qualification number and awarding body. Schools trust these courses.
How Do I Check if a TA Course Is Ofqual-Regulated?
Look for a qualification number and the awarding organisation (like NCFE or TQUK). Avoid courses that say “certificate of completion” with no official recognition.
Can I Become a SEN Teaching Assistant Without Extra Qualifications?
Yes, but specialist training helps. Many SEN TAs start with general qualifications and then add skills like Makaton or autism awareness.
What Qualifications Help for SEN Teaching Assistant Jobs?
These are useful:
- Autism awareness.
- ADHD and behaviour management.
- Team-Teach training.
- Makaton or British Sign Language.
- Paediatric first aid.
Can I Be a Teaching Assistant with No GCSEs?
It’s harder, but not impossible. You can take functional skills courses to replace GCSEs. Some schools accept equivalent qualifications.
Do I Need References to Become a Teaching Assistant?
Yes. Most schools ask for two references. One should be from a school placement, a childcare role, or an employer.
How CPD Courses Can Help You Become a Teaching Assistant
You don’t always need a big qualification to start as a teaching assistant. Short CPD (Continuing Professional Development) courses can also help you stand out. These courses focus on specific skills that schools value. They’re usually online, flexible, and affordable.
Examples include:
- Safeguarding and Child Protection – shows you understand how to keep pupils safe.
- Behaviour Management – helps you handle classroom challenges with confidence.
- SEN Awareness – gives insight into autism, ADHD, and other learning needs.
- Communication Skills or Makaton – boosts your ability to support non-verbal pupils.
- First Aid – always useful in a school setting.
These CPD courses don’t replace Level 2 or Level 3 qualifications, but they add to your CV. Schools see them as proof that you’re motivated, proactive, and serious about supporting children. They can also help you specialise – for example, completing SEN CPD courses is a big plus if you want to become a special needs teaching assistant.
The best part is you can start CPD training right away, even before applying for jobs. This shows schools that you’ve already invested time in building your skills.
How Do I Write a Teaching Assistant CV with No School Experience?
Focus on:
- Transferable skills like teamwork, patience, and communication.
- Volunteering with children.
- Any training or short courses.
- Personal qualities like reliability and enthusiasm.
How Long Does It Take to Qualify as a Teaching Assistant?
- Level 2 course: around 6–9 months.
- Level 3 course: 9–12 months.
- Apprenticeship: 18 months on average.
How Much Does a Teaching Assistant Course Cost?
Most online Level 2 or Level 3 courses cost £300 to £700. Apprenticeships are free to learners, as the government funds them.
What Is HLTA and How Do I Become a Higher Level Teaching Assistant?
HLTA means Higher Level Teaching Assistant. They take on extra roles like leading whole classes. To become one, you need experience as a TA plus HLTA status training.
Teaching Assistant Salary UK (2025)
How much do teaching assistants earn in 2025? Here’s a breakdown:
- Level 2 TA: £18,000–£20,000 full-time equivalent.
- Level 3 TA: £21,000–£25,000.
- SEN TA: £22,000–£27,000 depending on skills.
- HLTA: Up to £29,000.
Most TAs work term-time only, so actual pay is lower, often £12,000–£15,000 a year. Hourly rates average £11–£13.
Do Teaching Assistants Get Paid in the Holidays?
Usually no. Most contracts are term-time only. Pay is spread across 12 months, but you’re not paid for long breaks like summer.
Will Teaching Assistants Get a Pay Rise in 2025?
Yes. Support staff, including TAs, received a £1,290 pay rise in April 2024. This means new starters now earn around £24,400 full-time equivalent. Unions are pushing for further increases in 2025.
How to Become a Teaching Assistant Step by Step (UK)
- Check requirements. Make sure you have GCSE English and maths or equivalent.
- Get a DBS check. Schools will guide you on this.
- Gain experience. Volunteer or help at a school or club.
- Take a course. Choose Level 2 for beginners, Level 3 for more advanced roles.
- Apply for jobs. Use council websites, job boards, or school sites.
- Prepare for interviews. Be ready to show patience, communication skills, and safeguarding awareness.
Is a Teaching Assistant a Good Job?
Yes. It’s rewarding, flexible, and offers a chance to make a difference. Many parents choose it for school-time hours. For others, it’s a step toward becoming a teacher.
Can a Teaching Assistant Become a Teacher Without a Degree?
No. To qualify as a teacher in the UK, you need a degree plus teacher training. But being a TA is a great first step. Many TAs later study for a degree while working.
Final Thoughts: Do I Need Qualifications to Be a Teaching Assistant?
You don’t always need qualifications to be a teaching assistant, but they help. Schools want English and maths skills, a DBS check, and experience with children. A Level 2 or Level 3 course boosts your chances and pay. The job is rewarding, flexible, and a gateway to teaching.
Ready to start? Enrol in the Teaching Assistant Course at Unified Course today and take your first step toward becoming a TA.
