So, what is the salary for a teaching assistant? In 2025, most teaching assistants earn around £13 to £16 per hour, depending on their grade, school, and area. It may sound simple, but there’s a bit more behind those numbers.
Many TAs work term-time only, so even though their hourly pay stays the same, their annual salary is pro-rata — meaning it’s spread across fewer working weeks. That’s why the yearly figure might look smaller than you expect.
In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know — from pay scales and hourly vs annual rates to how experience, SEN roles, agency work, and London weighting can make a big difference. Whether you’re just starting out or thinking about moving up, you’ll get a clear picture of what to expect — and how to grow your pay as a teaching assistant.
What Do Teaching Assistants Earn on Average in 2025?
If you’re wondering what the average salary for a teaching assistant looks like in 2025, you’re not the only one. Let’s go through it step by step — clearly and simply.
Most teaching assistants are paid under the NJC (National Joint Council) scales, which are set by local councils. This system keeps pay fair and consistent across schools in the UK.
After the 2025/26 NJC pay rise (around 3.2%), here’s what you can expect:
- Starting full-time salary (FTE): around £24,000 – £26,800
- Typical hourly rate: roughly £13 – £16, depending on your grade and area
- Higher Level Teaching Assistants (HLTAs): can earn up to £28,000+ full-time
- London-based TAs often receive more because of local weighting allowances
However, remember that most teaching assistants work term-time only, which means:
- Your hourly rate stays the same.
- But your annual salary is pro-rata, based on the number of weeks you work (usually around 38–40).
As you gain experience or move up levels, your pay naturally increases. Every new grade reflects your growing skills, confidence, and the impact you make in the classroom. According to UNISON and local council pay tables, these pay steps add up nicely over time — both financially and emotionally. You don’t just earn more; you also see how your role helps children thrive.
What Is the Hourly Pay for Teaching Assistants?
Let’s get straight to the question everyone asks first — how much do teaching assistants earn per hour? Most schools follow the NJC pay scales, which set hourly rates based on your spinal column point (SCP). Your SCP depends on your experience, level, and responsibilities.
Here’s a quick look at the April 2025 rates (outside London):
- SCP3: about £12.85 per hour – a typical rate for new teaching assistants.
- SCP7: around £13.69 per hour – usually for Level 2 TAs with some experience.
- SCP10: roughly £14.36 per hour – often for Level 3 roles.
- SCP15: close to £15.56 per hour – common for more experienced or senior TAs.
As you can see, the pay rises steadily as you gain experience or move to a higher level. It’s nice to know your hard work and skill development actually show up in your pay packet! However, these numbers can still vary. London schools usually pay a bit more because of local allowances, while some academies or agencies set their own rates.
Before applying, always check the SCP number listed in the job advert — that’s the easiest way to see exactly how much you’ll earn.
Do Teaching Assistants Get Paid More in London?
Yes, they do! If you work as a teaching assistant in London, you’ll usually earn more than those outside the capital. This is thanks to something called London weighting — an extra pay boost to help cover the city’s higher living costs.
On average, inner London schools pay about 10–15% more than schools elsewhere in the UK. That means your hourly rate could be around £14 to £18 an hour, depending on your level and experience.
Here’s a quick idea of what that means in real terms:
- A TA earning £13.50 outside London could make £15 or more in inner London.
- Outer London schools still offer a smaller boost — usually 5–8% higher than ex-London rates.
This difference can really add up over the year, especially for full-time staff. It’s one of the reasons many teaching assistants choose to work in London, even though commuting or living costs are higher.
Every borough sets its own rates, so it’s always a good idea to check your local council or school website for exact figures.
How Experience and Grades Affect Teaching Assistant Salary (L1, L2, L3, HLTA)
Experience really makes a difference when it comes to a teaching assistant’s salary. The longer you work in schools and the more responsibilities you take on, the more your pay grows. Schools often use grades or levels to decide pay, from Level 1 (beginner) up to HLTA (Higher Level Teaching Assistant).
Let’s break it down step by step:
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Level 1 Teaching Assistant (Entry Level): This is where most people start. You’ll support teachers with simple tasks like setting up activities or helping pupils with classwork. The pay usually begins around £13.90 per hour (SCP8). It’s a great way to get your foot in the door and build experience.
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Level 2 Teaching Assistant (Intermediate): Once you’ve had some hands-on experience and perhaps a Level 2 qualification in Supporting Teaching and Learning, your responsibilities grow. You might support small groups or specific pupils. The pay here ranges from £14.30 to £15.00 per hour (SCP10–12).
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Level 3 Teaching Assistant (Advanced): At this stage, you’re a key classroom support. You might help plan lessons, give feedback, or even manage short activities on your own. With the Level 3 qualification, your pay climbs to around £15.56 per hour (SCP15).
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Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA): HLTAs are experienced TAs who often lead lessons, cover for teachers, or support pupils with complex needs. Because of their training and extra responsibility, they earn more — usually £16.08 or higher per hour (SCP17–19).
Over time, as you gain confidence and take on new roles, your pay will reflect your hard work and growing expertise. Some schools even offer extra allowances for SEN support, first aid, or lunchtime supervision.
So, if you’re thinking long-term, moving up each level not only improves your income but also helps you make an even bigger difference in pupils’ lives.
How Do Term-Time Contracts Impact Teaching Assistant Pay?
Yes, they do — but not in the way you might think. Your hourly rate stays the same, whether you work term-time or all year round. What changes is the total amount you earn over the year, because most teaching assistants only work around 38 to 40 weeks when schools are open.
So, even though your hourly pay might be, say, £14 per hour, your annual salary is “pro-rata”, meaning it’s based on the number of weeks you actually work. It’s then spread out evenly over 12 months, so you still get paid every month — even during school holidays.
Here’s how councils usually work it out:
They use the NJC formula — that’s your annual salary ÷ 52.143 ÷ 37 hours — to calculate the hourly rate shown in job adverts.
For example:
- If your full-time salary is £25,000 a year, your term-time pay might come out closer to £19,000–£20,000, depending on your working weeks.
- But your hourly rate stays exactly the same — you just get paid for fewer total hours.
It might sound a bit confusing at first, but in simple terms:
You’re still earning the same amount per hour; you just work fewer weeks each year.
This setup gives teaching assistants that lovely work–life balance, with school holidays free to rest, spend time with family, or even pick up extra hours elsewhere.
Do Part-Time Teaching Assistants Earn Less?
Many people wonder if part-time teaching assistants earn less, and the answer depends on what you mean by “less.”
If we’re talking about hourly pay, then no, you don’t earn less. Your hourly rate stays exactly the same as someone working full-time. Schools follow the same pay scale for all TAs, whether you work 10 hours or 37 hours a week. However, if you look at your total yearly pay, then yes, it will be lower simply because you work fewer hours overall. That’s normal for any part-time role.
Part-time teaching jobs are quite common in schools. They’re ideal if you need flexible hours, want to balance work with family life, or prefer shorter days. Some schools even offer job-sharing options, where two TAs share one full-time post. It’s always a good idea to check the SCP number (spinal column point) listed on your job advert. That number shows your exact pay rate and helps you confirm you’re on the right grade.
So, in short, being part-time doesn’t mean you’re valued less. You still earn the same fair rate per hour as any other teaching assistant. You just enjoy a schedule that fits your lifestyle.
How Much Do SEN Teaching Assistants Earn?
If you work as an SEN (Special Educational Needs) Teaching Assistant, your pay is usually a bit higher than that of a general classroom TA — and for good reason. Supporting children with special educational needs takes patience, skill, and extra care every single day.
Across most parts of the UK, SEN assistants earn around the mid-teens per hour, usually between £13 and £16 an hour outside London. But remember, this can vary depending on your experience and the level of support the role involves.
In London or in academy schools, pay can rise even higher. That’s because these jobs often come with added responsibilities — like providing one-to-one support, helping with behaviour plans, or assisting pupils with personal care. Many schools also include an SEN allowance to reflect the extra commitment required.
It’s always smart to check local job adverts or your council’s pay tables for the exact rates. Every school and borough may have slightly different pay bands.
In short, if you’re thinking about becoming an SEN TA, know that while it’s demanding, it’s also one of the most rewarding roles in education — and the pay fairly recognises the heart you bring to the job.
Do Agency Teaching Assistants Get Higher Pay?
Agency teaching means working through a recruitment agency instead of being hired directly by a school. The agency finds you short-term or supply work in different schools. This gives flexibility and variety, but pay and job security can change from week to week.
Let’s be real — many people think agency teaching assistants earn more money, but the truth isn’t always that simple. Agency pay can change a lot depending on the agency, the school, and where you work. Some agencies pay more to attract staff, while others follow similar rates to local councils.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Agency rates vary — your pay depends on the school and the agency.
- After 12 weeks in the same school, the Agency Workers Regulations (AWR) say you must earn the same pay as a permanent TA doing the same job.
- Flexibility is a big plus with agency work. You can choose when and where you work.
- Council or school contracts may offer better benefits like holiday pay, pensions, and job security.
- Always check your AWR rights and confirm your pay rate before starting any job.
So, do agency teaching assistants get higher pay? Sometimes yes — but not always. It depends on your situation. If you enjoy flexibility, agency work might suit you. But if you prefer steady hours and benefits, a school or council role could be better.
How Does Teaching Assistant Pay Compare to the National Living Wage?
From April 2025, the National Living Wage for workers aged 21 and over is £12.21 per hour. That’s the minimum most employers must pay — but where do teaching assistants stand compared to that?
Good news — most entry-level TAs earn slightly above the National Living Wage. For example, many schools start new TAs on around £12.80 to £13.50 per hour, depending on their spinal column point (SCP) and location.
As you gain experience or move to higher levels — like Level 3 or HLTA — your pay rises even more. Many experienced TAs earn between £15 and £16 per hour, and sometimes higher in London.
Here’s a quick look:
- National Living Wage (2025): £12.21/hr
- Entry-Level TA: £12.80–£13.50/hr
- Experienced TA / HLTA: £15–£16+/hr
- London TA: often 10–15% higher
So, while teaching assistant pay isn’t the highest in education, it sits above the minimum wage — and it grows steadily as you gain skills, training, and confidence. It’s proof that being a TA isn’t just a job — it’s a career with real value, where your effort and care are reflected in your pay over time.
What Extra Work Can Increase Teaching Assistant Pay?
If you’re a teaching assistant looking to boost your income, there are quite a few ways to do it — and they often come from the extra effort you already put into school life.
Many schools offer additional pay or allowances for taking on extra responsibilities. These little add-ons can make a noticeable difference to your earnings — and they also show your dedication to helping pupils thrive.
Here are some common examples:
- HLTA class cover: When you step in to lead a class, you often get paid at a higher HLTA rate.
- After-school clubs: Running or supporting clubs like homework help, arts, or sports usually comes with extra hourly pay.
- Exam support: Helping during exams — as an invigilator or reader — often includes additional hours or a set payment.
- SEN allowances: Working closely with pupils who have special educational needs may come with a fixed top-up or higher SCP.
These extra duties don’t just increase your pay — they help you grow in your role, build confidence, and gain valuable experience for future promotions. So, if you love going the extra mile, your hard work can genuinely pay off, both in money and in personal fulfilment.
FAQs: What Is the Salary for a Teaching Assistant?
- What is a teaching assistant’s salary in the UK?
In the UK, Level 2 TAs earn around £18,000–£20,000, while Level 3 or SEN TAs make up to £25,000. HLTAs earn £22,500–£29,000, based on experience.
- What are TA pay scales?
Teaching assistants usually earn £19,000 to £26,000 a year, depending on experience. They typically work 16 to 37 hours a week during term time, with occasional evening duties.
- How many hours is a full-time TA?
Most full-time teaching assistants work around 37 hours a week, usually from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM, Monday to Friday. Part-time roles often range between 25 and 35 hours weekly.
- Can I be a TA with no experience?
Yes, you can become a teaching assistant without experience. Schools value enthusiasm, reliability, and a genuine passion for helping children learn.
- Is being a TA a good job?
Yes, being a teaching assistant is a good job if you enjoy helping children and want school-time hours. However, it may not suit those looking for high pay.
Final Thoughts: What Is the Salary for a Teaching Assistant in 2025?
A teaching assistant’s pay reflects their effort, experience and the value they bring to the classroom. As you grow in confidence and skill, your earnings rise too — showing how much your role matters in shaping young minds.
If you love supporting children and want a stable, meaningful career, becoming a teaching assistant could be your ideal path.
Take action today — enrol in a trusted Teaching Assistant course and start building a career that truly makes a difference.
