Teaching assistants are a vital part of the classroom. They help to build and shape the future of a child as much as classroom teachers. And, whilst teachers concentrate more on teaching, teaching assistants support both teacher and child in multiple different ways.
This means no day is ever the same: one minute you may find yourself taking a reading group with a small selection of children, and then next you’re there to help and support a struggling child. Don’t worry if you don’t know the answer to ‘What are the Prerequisites for Becoming a Teaching Assistant’. We’ve broken down everything you need to know so that you can begin your career journey whenever you’re ready.
What does a Teaching Assistant do?
As a teaching assistant, you play an integral role within the classroom. Although the teacher is the one at the front of the classroom, you still act as a key figure for the children of your class.
Because the teacher is often preoccupied, you may find certain students build a closer relationship with you. This means that you must have excellent communication skills, as well as patience, as you start to become a figure of trust.
Some of the key responsibilities you carry out can include…
- Prepping the classroom for lessons or any special activities that will occur
- Reading to children, as well as developing their own reading skills
- Help students who struggle with focusing on tasks
- Supporting the teacher with keeping the class in order and control
- Caring for ill, injured or upset children
- Carrying out admin
Because the role of a teaching assistant is so varied, you may find you have to support a child with particular needs, working closely with them to help them get through class exercises and activities.
The age of children you work with will also shape how your working day looks. In primary schools, you may find your role is broader. In secondary school, on the other hand, you’re more likely to concentrate on working with small groups of individuals. You may also help out with practicals in science classes.
What qualifications do I need?
To be a teaching assistant you normally don’t have to train in a specific area to become qualified. Most paid jobs will, however, require you to have qualifications at least at the GCSE level, with a C or higher in numeracy and English.
However, this doesn’t mean you can hand your CV in and expect a job response straight away. Most schools expect you to have at least volunteered in a classroom before.
Where should I start?
A great option for those who want to become a teaching assistant is to look into a teaching assistant apprenticeship scheme. In some cases, practical learning is the best approach. With an apprenticeship scheme, you can learn on your feet and get paid for it too.
It also is a great option if you’re happy and settled in your area: if you complete your apprenticeship, you may be offered a job with the school you trained at. This means you know if the school is right for you before you’ve committed to a job.
To find out more about teaching assistant apprenticeship schemes contact us at Heart of England Training. We work closely with schools and businesses across the West Midlands to provide quality and efficient apprenticeship schemes.
