How do I become a teaching assistant in England? It’s easier than you might think! Start by checking school job ads to see who’s hiring. Then, prepare your DBS and ensure you have GCSE English and maths (9–4/C) or something equivalent. After that, do a short teaching assistant course or a Level 3 TA apprenticeship to sharpen your skills. Finally, apply to local schools or Multi-Academy Trusts, showing how you can help pupils and support teachers. Follow these steps, and you’ll soon be making a real difference in children’s learning every day.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything—what a teaching assistant does, the skills and qualifications you need, the best training to take, how to land your first role, and the exciting paths this job can open for you.
What Does a Teaching Assistant Do in England?
Ever wondered what a teaching assistant actually does each day? Well, there’s a lot of variety! For example, you’ll support the teacher in class, work with small groups, and give one-to-one help when a child needs extra attention. You’ll also notice behaviour cues, help keep the classroom organised, and prepare lessons or resources. On top of that, safeguarding is always important, and you’ll share quick updates with the teacher about how pupils are doing.
In short, teaching assistant roles involve helping children learn, running the classroom smoothly, and seeing the difference you make every day.
If you want to know more about what a teaching assistant does daily, check out our blog post “What Does a Teaching Assistant Do?” for all the details and tips to start your journey!
How Do I Become a Teaching Assistant in England?
Becoming a teaching assistant in England is easier than you might think! Most schools look for a few key things, but don’t worry—you can still start even if you’re missing something:
- GCSEs in English and maths – usually grades 9–4 (or C) or something similar
- Level 2 or 3 Supporting Teaching & Learning – helpful, but not always a must
- Level 3 TA apprenticeship – a great way to get real experience
- No national licence needed – anyone can start building experience
Plus, even if you don’t have everything, you can start by volunteering or doing a short teaching assistant course. This way, you’re still moving closer to your goal and making a difference for children daily.
Do I Need GCSEs to Be a Teaching Assistant in England?
Most schools want you to have GCSEs in English and maths, usually grades 9–4 (or C). This serves as the usual starting point for the role.
However, don’t worry if you don’t have GCSEs! Many schools accept Functional Skills as an equivalent. As a result, you can still meet the requirements to be a teaching assistant and get started by gaining experience or taking short teaching assistant courses online to build your skills.
Overall, knowing what you need to be a teaching assistant makes it easier to plan your next steps and feel confident when you apply.
Can I Become a Teaching Assistant Without Any Experience?
Yes, you can! You don’t need any experience to start as a teaching assistant. In fact, many people begin by volunteering in schools or youth groups to get practical experience and feel more confident.
After that, complete some basic safeguarding training and gather a couple of references, which schools usually ask for. Even so, as a beginner, you can start with entry-level jobs or apprenticeships that let you learn while you work.
Therefore, if you’re wondering how to become a teaching assistant without experience, don’t worry—there are many ways to get started and make a real difference for children daily.
What Checks and Documents Do I Need
Before starting as a teaching assistant, you’ll need a few important checks and documents. Schools usually ask for:
- Enhanced DBS check with the children’s barred list
- Right-to-work documents and photo ID
- Proof of address
- Two references
Plus, most schools will give you a safeguarding induction when you start.
What Courses Help Train as a Teaching Assistant?
There are several ways to learn the skills needed to be a teaching assistant. Many people start with a Level 2 or Level 3 Supporting Teaching & Learning (STL) course, which teaches practical classroom support.
Additionally, a Level 3 teaching assistant apprenticeship is a great option because it allows you to learn while gaining real experience.
Moreover, you can also do short teaching assistant courses or CPD courses to focus on specific skills, such as:
- Helping children with autism or ADHD
- Teaching phonics and early reading
- Using behaviour management strategies
- Paediatric first aid (PFA) for EYFS
These courses help you gain confidence, improve your skills, and make you stand out when applying for TA roles.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Teaching Assistant in England?
Becoming a teaching assistant doesn’t take forever. For example, if you take a short course, you can understand the basics in just a few weeks and start helping out in class right away. On the other hand, if you go for a Level 3 apprenticeship, it usually takes about a year to a year and a half. The best part is that you get paid while you learn and actually work in a school.
Moreover, some schools will hire you immediately if they see you’re the right person for the job. So, you could be helping kids sooner than you think!
Do I Need a School Placement to Qualify as a Teaching Assistant?
You don’t always need a school placement to start training as a teaching assistant. For example, many courses and apprenticeships already include some time in a real classroom, so you get hands-on experience while learning. In addition, doing a voluntary placement is really helpful. It looks good on your CV, gives you confidence, and can even lead to a paid job later.
Therefore, even if you’ve never worked in a school before, getting some time in a classroom is a smart way to learn the ropes and meet people who can help you get your first job.
What Skills Do Schools Want in New Teaching Assistants?
Schools look for TAs who can help and make a difference. Key skills include:
- Clear communication – explain things simply to kids and share updates with teachers
- Patience – every child learns at their own speed
- Teamwork – work well with teachers and other staff
- Inclusion & SEND awareness – support all kinds of learners
- Behaviour strategies – know simple ways to manage classroom behaviour
- Basic ICT skills – use computers for learning and classroom tasks
- Confidentiality – keep information private when needed
In short, schools want someone friendly, reliable, and ready to make a real difference for children every day.
How Much Do Teaching Assistants Earn in England in 2025?
If you’re wondering how much teaching assistants earn this year, here’s a clear breakdown that covers everything you need to know.
- Full-time salary: Most teaching assistants earn around £24,400 a year before tax. That’s the average starting pay for full-time roles across England.
- Hourly rate: This works out to roughly £12.65 per hour based on a standard 37-hour week. Some schools pay a little more depending on experience and location.
- Part-time and term-time jobs: Many TA roles are term-time only (about 39 weeks a year). Your pay is pro-rata, which means it depends on how many hours you work. For example, working 20 hours a week could bring in around £12,700 a year.
- Pay rise in 2025: From April 2025, there’s a 3.2% pay increase for all pay scales. So even if you’re new, you’ll see your earnings go up slightly.
- London Weighting Allowance: If you work in London, you’ll receive extra pay to help with higher living costs. The amount changes depending on the borough and school.
- Extra allowances: Some schools offer SEN (Special Educational Needs) or HLTA (Higher Level Teaching Assistant) pay boosts if you take on more responsibility or complete extra training.
- Overall earnings: Your pay can grow with experience, qualifications, and confidence. Taking short TA training online or completing a Level 3 apprenticeship can also help you move up faster and earn more.
Want to know more about TA salaries? Check out our blog: How Much Do Teaching Assistants Get Paid for a full breakdown.
What Are the Different Levels of Teaching Assistant Roles?
There are a few levels of teaching assistant (TA) jobs, and each one helps you grow step by step. As you move up, you’ll get more confidence, take on new tasks, and make an even bigger difference in the classroom. Let’s go through them together.
Level 1 – Getting Started
This is the first step. You’ll help the teacher with simple things like setting up activities, tidying the classroom or helping children during lessons. It’s a great way to see how schools work and learn the basics while you go.
Level 2 – Helping Small Groups
Once you’ve got some experience, you can move up to Level 2. Here, you’ll start working with small groups or one-to-one with children who need extra support. You’ll get better at helping with behaviour, learning tasks, and clear communication.
Level 3 – Focused Support
At this level, you’ll take on more responsibility. You might plan short learning activities, help children with special needs, and share progress with teachers. Many schools ask for a Level 3 TA qualification, but don’t worry—it’s something you can study for while working.
HLTA – Higher Level Teaching Assistant
This is the top level for TAs. You’ll lead some lessons, support teachers with planning, and even take over classes when needed. It’s a big step up—but it also means more pay, more trust, and more pride in what you do.
Every level is a chance to grow, shine, and make a real difference. Take it step by step, keep learning, and soon you’ll be the TA who truly changes children’s lives.
How Do I Apply for My First Teaching Assistant Job?
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to get started:
- Check job boards – Look at your local authority, Multi-Academy Trust (MAT) websites, and school websites for TA vacancies. Keep checking regularly for new openings.
- Tailor your CV – Highlight what schools care about most: safeguarding knowledge, experience supporting children (even volunteering counts), SEN support, and the difference you’ve made for pupils.
- Include training – Mention any teaching assistant courses online or other relevant training. It shows you’re eager to learn and develop your skills.
- Write a personalised cover note – Explain why you want to be a TA and how you can help children learn. Make it specific to each school.
- Apply with confidence – With a clear CV and cover note, you’re ready to land your first TA role and start making a real difference in the classroom.
Can Teaching Assistant Roles Lead to Other Careers in Education?
Starting as a TA can open doors to many paths in education:
- Senior TA / HLTA: Take on more responsibility, lead lessons, and support teachers with planning.
- Specialist roles: Focus on areas like ELSA, behaviour support, or SALT to help children with specific needs.
- Teacher training: Use your TA experience to become a qualified teacher through QTS, PGCE, or apprenticeships.
Starting as a TA is just the beginning—you can grow, specialise, and make an even bigger difference for children.
FAQs
- What qualifications do you need to be a teaching assistant in the UK?
GCSEs in English and maths (9–4/C). Level 2/3 courses or apprenticeships help, but aren’t always needed. - How long does it take to become a teaching assistant in the UK?
Weeks for short courses; 12–18 months for a Level 3 apprenticeship. - Can I be a TA with no experience?
Yes! Volunteer, do basic safeguarding, or start entry-level roles/apprenticeships. - How much is a TA paid in the UK?
Full-time starts around £24,400/year; part-time is pro-rata. Pay rises with experience, training, or London weighting. - Are teaching assistants in demand in the UK?
Yes! Schools look for reliable TAs, especially with SEN skills or extra training. - Can you do a teaching assistant course online?
Yes! Online TA courses and short CPD courses boost skills and job chances.
How to Start Your Teaching Assistant Journey
If you’re wondering how do I become a teaching assistant in England, don’t worry—it’s easier than you think! First, check that you have GCSEs or Functional Skills in English and maths. Then, get your DBS ready so you can work safely with children. Next, to build your skills and confidence, choose a starter course, like a Level 2/3 teaching assistant course or a short SEN CPD. Make sure you have two references from people who can vouch for your work or volunteering. Finally, apply to three local schools or Multi-Academy Trusts (MATs) this week.
By following these steps, you’ll soon be helping children learn, growing your skills, and enjoying the rewarding journey of being a teaching assistant every day.
Ready to start? Check out the Teaching Assistant Course at Unified Course to launch your journey and gain the skills schools are looking for!
