What Is the Role of a Teaching Assistant?

Ever paused to think about what is the role of a teaching assistant and why their role matters so much in schools? Well, teaching assistants help students learn by removing any problems that get in the way and keeping lessons running smoothly. They work with teachers and support students, including those who need extra help. They also make the classroom a happy and positive place where everyone can learn. 

In this guide, we’ll examine what TAs do, how they help in class, and how the role can grow over time.

What Does a Teaching Assistant Actually Do in the Classroom?

Teaching assistants are there to make learning easier for everyone. Here’s what they usually do during lessons:

• Move around the class to see who needs help and give quick support.
• Explain tasks or questions in simple, clear ways so students understand.
• Work with small groups or one-to-one to help pupils who need extra guidance.
• Get books, worksheets, and other materials ready before the lesson begins.
• Help manage behaviour and keep students focused during activities.
• Support pupils with special educational needs by adapting tasks when needed.
• Take notes on pupil progress or behaviour to share with the teacher.
• Follow the teacher’s plan to help keep the lesson calm, focused, and running smoothly.

How Teaching Assistants Support Students and Teachers

Supporting Students in the Classroom

When students need a little extra help, teaching assistants step in. They break big tasks into smaller steps, show how to do something, and use pictures or visual clues to make learning easier. They also help with reading or writing if needed and encourage students to try on their own after some guidance. This way, students feel more confident and stay engaged in the lesson.

Supporting Teachers Day to Day

Teaching assistants also help teachers every day to keep the classroom running smoothly. First, lessons are prepared by printing and organising materials ahead of time. Then, activities are set up and tidied away afterwards. Displays are put up to show students’ work, and during breaks or transitions, pupils are closely watched. In addition, notes are taken on how students are doing, and the teacher is informed about who might need extra help. This helps keep lessons on track and makes the classroom calmer and more organised.

How Do Teaching Assistants Support Children with Special Needs (SEN)?

TAts guide students with special educational needs (SEN) through hands-on support like:

• Keep the day predictable: Use structured routines and visual schedules so students know what to expect.
• Provide breaks when needed: Offer short breaks or sensory activities if students feel overwhelmed.
• Help with communication: Use pictures, prompts or other tools to help students express themselves more easily.
• Support behaviour calmly: Step in safely if a student becomes upset or frustrated.
• Adapt learning materials: Change lessons or resources so every student can join in and succeed.
• Team up with teachers: Work with the teacher or SENDCo and keep notes for reviews or EHCPs to track each student’s progress.

Do TAs Help with Lesson Planning and Marking?

Teaching assistants usually don’t plan lessons or grade students independently, because that’s the teacher’s job. But they still play an important role in supporting learning. For example, they help by preparing materials, taking notes on how students are doing, and working with students who need extra support. If the teacher agrees, they can mark simple tasks and record the results. This way, TAs make lessons run more smoothly and give teachers the information they need to help every student.

What Is the Role of a Teaching Assistant During Class Activities?

Teaching assistants follow a simple routine during lessons to keep everything running smoothly. First, they quickly chat with the teacher to see what’s planned. Then, they position themselves where they can see and help as many students as possible. While moving around the class, they give support, check if anyone is confused and guide students when needed. They also help manage transitions between activities so the class stays on track. Finally, they share quick notes with the teacher about how students did and anything that might need extra attention.

Do Teaching Assistants Work One-to-One with Pupils?

Yes, teaching assistants often work one-on-one with students, especially those who need extra help or are catching up. But the important thing to know is that the goal isn’t to do everything for them. First, TAs usually sit next to the students and guide them. Then, they encourage the students to share their ideas and slowly step back over time. This way, the student becomes more independent and can confidently join the whole class.

What Responsibilities Do TAs Have Outside the Classroom?

Teaching assistants also play a key role outside lessons, including:

• Watching over students during breaks and lunch to keep them safe and happy.
• Helping with clubs, trips and events to make school life more fun and organised.
• Running extra learning support, like reading sessions or catch-up help.
• Handling admin tasks such as photocopying, filing, and keeping learning records in order.
• Chatting with parents or carers to share student progress updates when school policy allows.
• Going to training to learn new skills and stay updated with best practices.

How Do Teaching Assistants Support Behaviour and Wellbeing?

Teaching assistants play a big role in helping students behave well and feel safe. They set clear expectations and use positive praise to encourage good behaviour. They also use simple signals, like gestures or eye contact, to guide students without interrupting the lesson. If a student gets upset, they might take them to a quiet space or “reset corner” and have a short chat to help them calm down. In addition, they follow consistent routines so students know what to expect. Finally, TAs stay alert for safeguarding concerns and let the designated safeguarding lead (DSL) know if anything serious comes up.

What Skills Make a Good Teaching Assistant?

A good teaching assistant needs a mix of practical skills and people skills. For starters, staying calm and patient really helps when students are struggling or upset. On top of that, working well with teachers and other staff makes the classroom run smoothly. It’s also important to know about inclusion and special educational needs (SEND), so every student gets the support they need. In addition, using behaviour strategies helps keep the class on track. On the practical side, basic ICT skills, being organised and keeping information private are all important. Finally, sharing real examples from your application or interview experience can show what you can do.

How Does the Role Change with Experience or Higher Qualifications (Like HLTA)?

As teaching assistants gain experience or get higher qualifications, their role can grow. First, you start as a regular TA, then move up to a Senior TA, and later become an HLTA. With HLTA status, you can lead learning, cover classes with the teacher’s guidance, run extra support sessions, and help with assessments. On top of that, more experience and training mean more responsibility and a bigger impact in the classroom.

Here’s a common career path to give you an idea:

Regular TA → Senior TA → HLTA → Specialist Roles (ELSA / Behaviour / SALT Support) → Teacher Training (QTS / PGCE / Apprenticeship)

Why Are Teaching Assistants So Important in Schools?

Teaching assistants are often the unsung heroes of the classroom. First, they make sure every student gets the help they need and feels included. Without TAs, teachers would be really busy, lessons could feel rushed, and some students might not get the needed attention. TAs also bring calm, patience, and encouragement, helping students feel safe and confident to learn. Ultimately, great TA support turns planned lessons into real learning for every child and makes a lasting difference in their lives.

Final Thoughts

So, what is the role of a teaching assistant? To put it simply, TAs are the heart of the classroom. They help remove obstacles that stop students from learning and ensure everyone feels included. At the same time, they support teachers with everyday tasks to help lessons run smoothly. On top of that, they work one-to-one with pupils, help manage behaviour, and boost students’ confidence, making a real difference in how much students learn.

And whether you’re just starting or considering moving up to roles like HLTA, this job is full of opportunities. In the end, great teaching assistants don’t just help lessons happen. They help every student actually learn.

Ready to make a difference in schools? Start your TA career now with our Teaching Assistant Course at the Open Learning Academy!

FAQs

• What are the qualities of a good teaching assistant?

Patience, calm communication, teamwork, organization, behaviour strategies, SEND awareness, basic ICT skills, and reliability are essential.

• Can I be a TA with no experience?

Yes. Many schools hire beginners, especially if you take a Level 2 or 3 TA course.

• How much is a TA paid in the UK?

Salaries usually start around £18k–£22k per year, but experienced or senior TAs can earn more.

• Can a TA legally teach a class?

No, TAs can support and lead activities, but only a qualified teacher can officially teach a full class.

• What should a TA not do?

TAs should not plan lessons independently, mark exams, discipline outside school rules, or share confidential information.

• What is the 70 30 rule in teaching?

It suggests teachers talk 30% of the time while students do 70%, promoting active learning.

• What is the 10 minute rule in teaching?

It recommends breaking lessons or activities into 10-minute chunks to keep students engaged and focused.