If you’re considering a career change, wondering how to re-enter the workforce, or simply want to work in a role where you make a real difference, becoming a teaching assistant might be perfect for you. Many people worry about the teaching assistant requirements in the UK, but you’ll be glad to know that you don’t need a degree. What you do need is patience, strong communication skills, and the right training to support children effectively.
Most schools prefer candidates with GCSEs in English and maths and a Level 2 or Level 3 qualification in Supporting Teaching and Learning. These courses give you the knowledge and confidence to step into the classroom. But beyond qualifications, schools are looking for people who care about children and can stay calm in a busy environment. If that sounds like you, this career path could be closer than you think.
What Does a Teaching Assistant Do Day to Day?
The job of a teaching assistant, or TA, is about supporting learning in the classroom. Teachers lead the lessons, but TAs make sure every pupil has the support they need to succeed.
Supporting Learning
You may work with small groups or sit beside one child who needs extra help. Reading practice, spelling support, and maths problem solving are all part of the daily routine.
Preparing the Classroom
Before lessons, you help set up resources. This might include preparing worksheets, arranging equipment for science experiments, or getting art supplies ready. At the end of the day, you help tidy up and prepare for the next session.
Extra Supervision
Outside lessons, you might supervise during playtime, lunch, or school trips. In these moments you help keep children safe and settled.
Working With Additional Needs
Many TAs provide focused support for pupils with special educational needs (SEN). This could mean helping a child with autism transition between activities or guiding a child with dyslexia through reading exercises.
The variety keeps the role interesting, and every day feels different.
How Much Do Teaching Assistants Earn in the UK?
Entry-Level Pay
Most entry-level teaching assistants earn between £13,000 and £15,000 per year. This is usually for term-time only, part-time contracts.
Progression and HLTA Pay
As you gain experience and move into Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) roles, salaries can increase to between £22,000 and £29,000. In these roles you often take on more responsibility, including leading small classes.
Regional Differences
If you live in London or nearby areas, you can expect slightly higher pay because of living costs. Schools may also pay more for roles that involve additional responsibilities, such as working with children who have significant needs.
Term-Time Contracts
Because most TAs work around 39 weeks per year, pay is pro-rata. This means you don’t get paid for school holidays directly, but your pay is spread across 12 months so you receive a consistent monthly salary. Many TAs also earn extra money by helping at after-school clubs or holiday schemes.
Teaching Assistant Requirements: What Do You Need?
To start working as a teaching assistant in the UK, you’ll usually need a combination of qualifications, checks, and experience.
Qualifications
Most schools ask for GCSEs in English and maths. Level 2 or Level 3 courses in Supporting Teaching and Learning are widely recognised. Some people also study childcare, youth work, or related areas.
Safeguarding Checks
All TAs must pass an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. This confirms that you’re safe to work with children. Many employers also ask you to register with the DBS Update Service, which makes future checks easier.
Experience
Experience with children is highly valued. Volunteering in a school, helping in a nursery, or working in a youth club all show your commitment. Even experience raising your own children can help demonstrate your skills.
Skills and Attitude
Perhaps the most important requirement is the right mindset. Schools want people who are patient, empathetic, and able to stay calm under pressure. If you enjoy working with children and can build trust, you already have the foundations for success.
Routes Into a Teaching Assistant Career
There’s no single way to become a teaching assistant. Different routes suit different people depending on their background.
Level 2 and Level 3 Courses
These are the most common qualifications. Level 2 is ideal for beginners, while Level 3 prepares you for more responsibility. Both provide a strong foundation and usually include placements in schools.
Check out Unified Course’s Level 2 and Level 3 Teaching Assistant Course.
Apprenticeships
An apprenticeship lets you to earn a wage while gaining practical experience in a school. This is a great option if you prefer hands-on learning.
T Level in Education and Childcare
This qualification is available in England and combines classroom study with long placements. It’s designed for learners who want structured training.
Volunteering
Many people start by helping at their child’s school or in local youth groups. Volunteering builds confidence and often leads to paid work.
Direct Application
If you already have childcare experience or relevant transferable skills, you can apply straight to schools. Highlight your communication skills, organisational ability, and commitment to children’s wellbeing in your application.
Skills That Make a Great Teaching Assistant
To thrive as a TA, you need more than just formal qualifications. The skills you bring into the classroom are vital.
Patience and Calmness
Children learn at different speeds, and some days can be challenging. Staying calm helps everyone, including the teacher.
Listening and Communication
Children often express themselves in unexpected ways. Listening carefully and responding clearly makes them feel understood.
Organisation and Time Management
From preparing resources to keeping track of pupil progress, organisation ensures lessons run smoothly.
Teamwork
You’ll work closely with teachers, other TAs, and sometimes outside specialists. Collaboration makes everything more effective.
Creativity and Flexibility
Every day is different. Being flexible and creative helps you adapt to new challenges quickly.
What Hours Do Teaching Assistants Work?
Most teaching assistants work during school hours, usually from early morning until mid-afternoon, Monday to Friday. In addition to classroom hours, schools may ask you to attend training days or parents’ evenings.
Some schools also run breakfast clubs or after-school activities. TAs who help with these sessions earn extra pay and enjoy the chance to build stronger relationships with pupils.
A big benefit of this career is the holiday pattern. Because you usually work term-time only, you get around 13 weeks off per year. This makes the role appealing for parents who want to set their work schedule with their children’s school holidays.
Step-by-Step: How to Become a Teaching Assistant
- Check Entry Requirements – Make sure you have GCSEs in English and maths or some equivalent qualification.
- Gain Experience – Volunteer in a school or childcare setting to build confidence.
- Choose a Qualification – Decide between Level 2, Level 3, apprenticeship, or T Level.
- Apply for Jobs – Look on school websites, local authority boards, or sites like Tes and Eteach.
- Prepare for Interviews – Be willing to talk about behaviour management, teamwork, and safeguarding.
- Keep Developing – Take CPD courses and workshops to keep your skills sharp.
Safeguarding and Compliance
Safeguarding is a non-negotiable part of the job. You’ll need an enhanced DBS check before you start. Some schools cover the cost, while others expect you to pay. Registering with the Update Service saves time if you move jobs.
Most schools also provide safeguarding training. Topics include child protection, online safety, and recognising signs of abuse. Many also encourage TAs to complete paediatric first aid. These extra steps show you can handle emergencies and protect pupils.
Career Progression: From TA to HLTA and Beyond
Teaching assistant roles don’t have to be the end point. With experience, you can become a Higher Level Teaching Assistant. HLTAs plan and deliver lessons, supervise other staff, and earn more money.
Some TAs use the experience to progress into teaching. Having classroom experience makes you a strong candidate for teacher training courses such as PGCE or QTS routes. Schools often support TAs who want to take this step.
Specialisms: SEN, EAL, and More
Many TAs develop a specialism that makes them more valuable. Some focus on supporting children with SEN, such as autism, ADHD, or dyslexia. Others specialise in literacy, numeracy, or helping pupils who speak English as an additional language.
These specialisms require extra training but open up new opportunities. Schools often seek out staff with these skills because they make a real difference to pupil progress.
Where Do Teaching Assistants Work?
TAs are needed in many settings across the UK. Primary schools are the most common, but opportunities also exist in nurseries, secondary schools, and colleges. Special schools need TAs with additional skills to support children with complex needs.
Job titles vary too. You might see roles advertised as classroom assistant, learning support assistant, or pupil support assistant in Scotland. Each setting offers its own rewards and challenges, but all give you the chance to make a difference.
A Day in the Life of a Teaching Assistant
Your day might begin by helping children settle in and preparing the classroom. During the morning, you could lead a small reading group while the teacher works with the rest of the class. After break, you might help pupils with a science project.
In the afternoon, you could spend time with a pupil who needs extra support with maths. At the end of the day, you help tidy the classroom and record pupil progress. Some days will feel busy, others calmer, but every day offers the chance to support learning.
FAQs About Teaching Assistants
Do you need a degree?
No. GCSEs and Level 2 or Level 3 qualifications are usually enough.
Do TAs get paid in the holidays?
Pay is spread across the year, so you receive monthly income even when school is closed.
What’s the difference between a TA and HLTA?
An HLTA has more responsibility, can lead classes, and earns more.
Can I become a TA with no experience?
Yes. Volunteering or short placements give you the experience schools look for.
Can a TA become a teacher?
Yes. Many progress to teacher training after gaining classroom experience.
What skills matter most?
Patience, communication, organisation, and empathy are key.
Is This Career Right for You?
Teaching assistant requirements states that working as a teaching assistant is more than just a job. It’s a chance to guide children, give them confidence, and see them grow. You don’t need a degree to get started, but you do need patience, flexibility, and the right training. With GCSEs, a Level 2 or Level 3 qualification, and some hands-on experience, you can step into this career with confidence.
If you want work that matches school hours, offers variety every day, and allows you to make a difference, becoming a teaching assistant could be the perfect fit.
Ready to take the next step? Enrol today in our online Teaching Assistant course at Unified Course and gain the skills schools look for.
