What Qualifications Do You Need to Be a Teaching Assistant in the UK?

“What qualifications do you need to be a teaching assistant?”. If you have asked yourself that question recently, you’re in the right place. Schools hire teaching assistants to help children, run small groups, and keep the classroom running smoothly. The best part? There are many ways to start. You can take basic courses or earn while learning through the Level 3 Teaching Assistant apprenticeship. So, whether you’re new or want to grow your skills, knowing the teaching assistant requirements will help you confidently take the first step.

In this guide, we will show you the qualifications, courses, checks, and tips you need to become a successful teaching assistant in the UK.

What Qualifications Do You Need to Be a Teaching Assistant?

You don’t need a degree to become a teaching assistant. Actually, most schools care more about your skills and how you connect with children. They want someone with good literacy and numeracy skills who can work safely with kids. Also, your attitude matters—patience, kindness, and care go a long way.

And don’t worry if you’re just starting. With the right mindset and willingness to learn, you can make a real difference in the classroom from day one.

What Are the Minimum Requirements for a Teaching Assistant?

If you want to become a TA, there are a few basic skills schools usually look for. First, you need GCSEs in English and Maths at grades 9–4 (or C) or something similar. These help you support pupils with reading, writing, and numbers. Next, you must have an enhanced DBS check with the children’s barred list to show you’re safe to work with kids. Also, basic IT skills help you use classroom computers and plan lessons.

Overall, meeting these requirements gives you confidence and a strong start. Knowing what you need to be a teaching assistant makes it easier to plan your career.

What Level 2 Teaching Assistant Qualifications Can You Take?

If you’re just starting, a Level 2 qualification is a great way to kick off your teaching assistant journey. Basically, it helps you learn the skills and confidence to support teachers and pupils every day. You can take a Level 2 Award or Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning (STL) from trusted bodies like NCFE, CACHE, or City & Guilds.

Also, these courses teach you how to help with lessons, work with small groups, understand children’s needs, and make the classroom a happy place. Completing a Level 2 shows schools you’re ready to help and sets you up to move on to Level 3 or a teaching assistant apprenticeship.

What Level 3 Teaching Assistant Qualifications Are Available?

Once you’ve got some experience, a Level 3 qualification lets you take on more responsibility and support children with special educational needs (SEN). It shows you how to play a bigger role in lessons, help plan activities, and give extra support to pupils who need it.

Also, you can choose a Level 3 Certificate or Diploma in Supporting Teaching and Learning (STL) from recognised providers. Or, you can take the Level 3 Teaching Assistant apprenticeship, which lets you earn while you learn and gain real classroom experience.

Do You Need a Placement While Studying?

If you’re wondering how to become a teaching assistant without experience, don’t worry—you can start learning immediately. Most competence-based Certificates and Diplomas ask you to do a placement in a school or work while studying. This is great because you get real classroom experience while learning new skills.

But some theory-only Awards don’t need a placement. This makes it easier if you’re just starting. Either way, getting hands-on experience helps you feel confident, learn faster, and show schools you’re ready to make a difference with children.

Can You Train Online to Be a Teaching Assistant?

Yes! If you’re wondering how to train to be a teaching assistant, online courses make it simple and flexible. Many Level 2 and Level 3 TA courses are available online, letting you study independently from home. This is perfect if you’re busy, want to balance work or family, or prefer learning in a comfortable space.

Also, practical tasks and evidence of skills usually take place in a school. So, you still get hands-on experience while learning theory online. Online courses give you the skills, boost your confidence and earn the qualification you need to start or grow as a teaching assistant.

What Is a Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) Qualification?

A Higher Level Teaching Assistant, or HLTA, is a TA with extra skills and responsibility. Basically, HLTAs can lead lessons, cover classes when the teacher is away and support pupils in different subjects. This is exciting because you get more independence and can make a bigger difference in children’s learning.

Also, HLTAs usually earn more because of their extra responsibility. If you want to know how to become a higher-level teaching assistant, you need some TA experience, complete the HLTA assessment, and show that you can manage learning confidently. Becoming an HLTA is a great step in growing your career and helping more children.

Want to know more about TA pay? Read our blog article How Much Salary for Teaching Assistant for full insight.

Are There Extra Courses That Help?

Definitely! Even after your main TA qualification, extra courses can boost your skills and confidence. For example, safeguarding for teaching assistants shows you how to keep children safe at school. Also, SEN teaching assistant training and autism awareness help you support pupils who need extra help.

Plus, courses in behaviour support, phonics, and Paediatric First Aid (EYFS) give you practical skills you can use every day. These extra teaching assistant courses make you more confident, show schools you’re serious, and help you make a bigger difference for children.

How Long Does It Take to Get Qualified as a Teaching Assistant?

Wondering how long it takes to become a teaching assistant? Well, it depends on the course you choose. Level 2 or Level 3 courses usually take about 3–9 months, depending on your pace and the provider. Meanwhile, the Level 3 Teaching Assistant apprenticeship takes around 12–18 months because you learn while working in a school.

The great part is that every step brings you closer to helping children and gaining confidence in the classroom. By the end, you’ll have the skills and experience to start your TA role and make a real difference from day one.

What Checks and Paperwork Do You Need?

If you want to become a teaching assistant, here’s what schools usually ask for:

• Enhanced DBS check with children’s barred list – proves you’re safe to work with children
• Right-to-work ID – shows you can legally work in the UK
• Proof of address – lets schools know where you live
• References – past employers or schools vouch for your reliability
• KCSIE safer recruitment rules – schools follow these to keep both staff and children safe

Remember, it might feel like a lot, but these checks protect both you and the children. Plus, they get you ready to work with confidence and care!

FAQs

• Can I work as a teaching assistant with no qualifications?

Yes! Many schools hire TAs without formal qualifications, especially if you have good literacy, numeracy, and a love for helping children.

• How much does a TA get paid?

It varies, but typically TAs earn around £12–£15 per hour. Higher-level TAs (HLTA) usually earn more.

• How long does it take to train to be a teaching assistant?

Level 2/3 courses take 3–9 months. Level 3 apprenticeships take 12–18 months while working.

• Why are schools getting rid of TAs?

Some schools face budget cuts or restructure staff roles. It’s not about value—they’re still important for pupils.

• Why are teaching assistants paid so low?

Pay is linked to funding and role responsibilities. HLTAs and experienced TAs earn higher rates.

• How to become a teaching assistant?

Start with a Level 2 course or apprenticeship, gain experience, and progress to Level 3 or HLTA.

• Is it difficult to get a teaching assistant job?

Not usually. Schools often need reliable, patient people. Extra courses and experience make you stand out.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Qualification for Your TA Career

If you’re asking how do you become a teaching assistant, the best way is to start with a Level 2 qualification. This helps you learn the basics, gain confidence, and start supporting pupils every day. Next, move on to Level 3 or the Level 3 apprenticeship so you can take on more responsibility while learning in a real classroom. Finally, aim for the HLTA qualification to lead lessons and guide learning.

The best part is that each step builds your skills, your confidence, and your impact. This path can even help you move from a teaching assistant to becoming a teacher.

Start your TA journey today! Join the Teaching Assistant Course at Open Learning Academy and learn the skills to help children and grow your career.