How Do I Become a Teaching Assistant in England?

How Do I Become a Teaching Assistant in England? Lots of people ask this when they want to work in schools, help kids learn, and make a real difference. First, start with GCSEs in English and Maths. Next, do a TA course or an apprenticeship to get the basics. Then, sort out an enhanced DBS check and get some real experience by volunteering or taking a starter role in a school. Finally, these steps cover the main requirements and help you move toward a rewarding career. 

So, in this guide, we’ll walk you through all the steps, courses, and experience you need to become a teaching assistant in the UK.

What Does a Teaching Assistant Do in Schools?

A teaching assistant helps the classroom run smoothly and supports both teachers and students. Here’s what they usually do:

• Help the whole class during lessons, making sure everyone can follow along
• Work with small groups or one-to-one with students who need extra help.
• Support children with special needs (SEN), making sure they join in and understand.
• Get learning materials ready, like worksheets or equipment, so lessons run without hiccups.
• Keep an eye on breaks and transitions, helping students move safely and calmly.
• Give teachers feedback on how students are doing, including progress or behaviour.
• Encourage teamwork and good behaviour, helping students work together and stay focused.
• Help out with clubs, reading groups, or school trips when extra hands are needed.

These are the main teaching assistant roles and show how they provide essential classroom support in the UK.

How Do I Become a Teaching Assistant in England?

Step 1: Get your GCSEs in English and Maths

• You usually need at least grade 4 (C) in both.
• These help you support lessons, reading, writing, and numbers.

Step 2: Do a Level 2 course or Level 3 apprenticeship

• Level 2 courses teach the basics of helping in class, organising lessons, and supporting students.
• Level 3 apprenticeships are more advanced, combining work and training, preparing you for bigger roles like SEN support or HLTA.

Step 3: Get school experience

• Volunteer in classrooms, clubs, or reading groups.
• Starter roles help you learn routines, behaviour management, and how lessons run. Schools value this experience.

Step 4: Get an enhanced DBS check and references

• A DBS check clears you to work with children safely.
• References from teachers or supervisors show schools you’re reliable and safe to work with children.

Step 5: Apply to schools or academy trusts

• Check local council websites, TES, eTeach, or school websites for vacancies.
• Highlight your courses, experience, and DBS in your application to improve your chances.

These steps cover all key requirements, including apprenticeships and DBS checks, to start your TA career in England.

What Are the Best Courses to Start With?

If you’re just starting as a teaching assistant, the first step is usually a Level 2 teaching assistant course, like the Level 2 Award or Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning. This gives you the basics you need to help in class, support students and get used to how schools run. Next, you can move on to a Level 3 teaching assistant course or Level 3 Certificate/Diploma. This level teaches more advanced skills, like leading small groups and supporting children with special needs.

Another option is the Level 3 Teaching Assistant apprenticeship (ST0454), which lets you work in a school while getting training. It’s a great way to earn money, gain real experience, and build confidence. These courses are a great way to start helping kids in schools while building your career.

How Old Do You Need to Be to Become a TA?

If you want to start as a teaching assistant, you can usually begin at 16 if you’re doing an apprenticeship. But many schools prefer people to be 18 or older, especially for paid roles or jobs with more responsibility. So, always check the job advert to see the exact age requirement, as it can be different depending on the school or academy trust.

Can You Become a Teaching Assistant with No Experience?

Obviously, you can start your career as a teaching assistant even without prior experience. Many people begin by gaining practical exposure and building confidence in schools. Here’s how to get started:

• Volunteer in schools – join reading groups, breakfast clubs, or after-school clubs. This gives real experience working with children and supporting teachers.
• Observe lessons – watch how teachers plan and run classes. Learn teaching methods, behaviour management, and how to support different learners.
• Take a trainee or entry-level role – gain hands-on experience, help with small groups, and get familiar with daily routines.
• Build references – show teachers and supervisors you are reliable and committed, which helps when applying for paid roles.

Following these steps sets a strong foundation to step into a teaching assistant role and start a rewarding school career.

What Checks and Paperwork Do You Need (DBS, References, etc.)?

Before you can start as a teaching assistant, schools need to make sure it’s safe for you to work with children. Here’s what you’ll usually need:

• Enhanced DBS check – shows you’re cleared to work with children and checks the barred list.
• Right-to-work ID – proves you can legally work in the UK.
• Proof of address or name changes – helps confirm your identity.
• Two references – from teachers, supervisors, or past employers to show you’re reliable.
• Safeguarding training – schools follow Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) rules to protect pupils.

With these checks in place, schools know they’re hiring safe and trustworthy staff, helping you start confidently in your teaching assistant role.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Teaching Assistant?

The time it takes really depends on the path you pick. For starters, a Level 2 course usually takes a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on the provider. Then, a Level 3 course takes a few months and includes some school placement so you can get hands-on experience. Finally, if you go for a teaching assistant apprenticeship, it normally lasts about 12 to 18 months while you work and earn in a school. Knowing how long it takes to become a teaching assistant helps you plan your training and start your career with confidence.

How Much Does Training Cost?

The cost of training to become a teaching assistant can vary depending on the course and provider. For example, Level 2 or Level 3 courses usually have fees, but it’s worth checking if they are Ofqual-regulated, as this makes sure the course is officially recognised and trusted. On the other hand, apprenticeships are fully funded, and you even get paid while learning. So, when choosing a course, compare what support and assessment options they offer to get the best value and make learning easier.

If you want an affordable, flexible option, Open Learning Academy offers CPD-accredited courses designed to fit around your schedule.

What Skills Help You Succeed as a TA?

Being a great teaching assistant isn’t just about helping with lessons—it’s about making a real difference for children. Here are the key skills that help you shine:

• Patience – staying calm and positive, even when things get tricky.
• Empathy – understanding how students feel and knowing how to support them.
• Communication – explaining things clearly and listening carefully.
• Teamwork – working smoothly with teachers, staff, and other TAs.
• Organisation – keeping lessons, resources, and tasks on track.
• Basic IT skills – using computers for lessons, records, or presentations.
• Behaviour support – helping manage classroom behaviour confidently.
• SEN awareness – understanding and supporting children with special educational needs.

Mastering these teaching assistant skills makes you a trusted, confident, and valued part of any school team.

Where Can You Find Your First TA Job?

Finding your first teaching assistant job in England isn’t as hard as it seems. First, check out GOV.UK Teaching Vacancies for school and local authority roles across the country. Then, take a look at your local council or academy trust websites—they often list positions you won’t find elsewhere. Also, sites like TES, eTeach, and Indeed are packed with opportunities.

To make it easier, set up alerts for roles like Teaching Assistant, Learning Support, or SEN TA so you get notified as soon as new jobs come up. This way, you’ll stay on top of the best school support staff vacancies.

How Much Do Teaching Assistants Earn in England?

Teaching assistant pay can vary depending on the school and local pay scales. Most roles follow NJC or academy scales based on the grade or SCP (spinal column point). Salaries are usually pro-rated for term-time hours, so you get paid only for the weeks you work.

Also, if you’re in London, many roles include extra London weighting, which means higher pay. So, always check the grade or SCP in the job advert to know what the role really offers. Understanding the teaching assistant salary in England helps you plan your career and manage your finances confidently.

Here’s an average salary guide to help you understand:

• Entry-level TA – around £19,000–£21,000 per year (full-time, term-time).
• Experienced TA / Level 3 TA – around £21,000–£25,000 per year.
• SEN TA – around £22,000–£28,000 per year, depending on experience and responsibility.
• London weighting – adds roughly £2,000–£5,000 extra per year, depending on the area.

Can You Work Part-Time or Term-Time Only?

Yes, you can work part-time or term-time only as a teaching assistant. For example, many roles are around 25–32.5 hours per week, which makes it easier to fit the job around family, studies, or other commitments.

Also, always check the advert for the exact hours and weeks paid, because this affects your take-home pay. So, choosing a flexible role like a part-time teaching assistant or term-time only job is a great way to gain experience while keeping a balanced schedule.

What Are the Next Steps After Getting Qualified?

Once you’re qualified, here’s a simple roadmap to take your career further:

• Gain practical experience – work in schools to build confidence and skills.
• Progress to Level 3 – if you started at Level 2, this allows you to take on more responsibility.
• Do CPD training – add safeguarding, SEN, or first aid courses to boost your expertise.
• Aim for HLTA qualification – when ready, lead learning, manage groups, or cover classes.
• Keep an evidence portfolio – track your achievements and experience for future opportunities.

Following these steps helps you grow your career as a teaching assistant and opens doors to higher roles.

Final Thoughts: Start Your Teaching Assistant Journey with Confidence

If you’ve been wondering how do I become a teaching assistant in England, the best way to start is by taking one small action today. For example, you could book a Level 2 taster course to see what the training involves, email a school to volunteer and gain hands-on experience, or set up job alerts to stay updated on new teaching assistant opportunities.

By taking these first steps, you begin building the skills and confidence needed in schools. Remember, kindness, consistency, and curiosity go a long way. Starting as a teaching assistant lets you help kids and do meaningful work every day.

Ready to take the first step? Enroll in the Teaching Assistant Course at Open Learning Academy today and start your journey toward a rewarding career in schools.