The Complete Guide to Becoming a Teaching Assistant in the UK
Teaching Assistants (TAs) are the backbone of UK classrooms. They support pupils, help teachers deliver lessons effectively, and often provide vital one-to-one support for children with additional needs.
At Dunbar Education, we place hundreds of TAs in schools every year, from those starting their first role to experienced support staff taking the next step. If you’re considering a career as a Teaching Assistant, this guide explains everything you need to know.
What Does a Teaching Assistant Do?
The role of a TA varies depending on the school, but typically includes:
01 Supporting pupils with their learning in class
02 Working with small groups or one-to-one with children who need extra help
03 Helping pupils with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities)
04 Assisting with classroom preparation and resources
05 Supporting behaviour management and pastoral care
06 Contributing to the smooth running of lessons and school life
Many TAs tell us the most rewarding part of the role is seeing pupils grow in confidence with their support.
What Qualifications Do You Need?
The good news is you don’t need a degree to become a TA. Most schools look for:
- Good literacy and numeracy skills (GCSEs in English and Maths are often required)
- Experience of working with children (e.g. volunteering, youth work, or childcare)
- A strong interest in education and supporting young people
Some schools prefer candidates with Level 2 or Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualifications, but it’s not always essential. At Dunbar, we regularly place candidates without formal TA training, especially if they bring transferable skills such as childcare, coaching, or healthcare.
Salary Expectations
Teaching Assistants are usually paid on the local government pay scale, which varies depending on the local authority and the hours worked (many TAs work term-time only).
As of 2025, typical TA pay ranges from:
● £20,000 – £24,000 FTE (full-time equivalent) for Level 1–2 TAs
● £24,000 – £27,000 FTE for higher level or SEN-focused TAs
Actual take-home pay may be lower if the role is term-time only. Some schools also offer additional allowances for one-to-one SEN support.
Career Progression
Many Teaching Assistants use the role as a stepping stone to further opportunities, such as:
● Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) roles, with more responsibility for planning and leading lessons
● Specialising in SEN support
● Progressing into teacher training through School Direct, PGCE, or apprenticeship routes
We’ve worked with countless candidates who started as TAs and are now fully qualified teachers. Schools value classroom experience, so TA work is an excellent foundation for long-term careers in education
How to Apply for TA Roles
If you’re serious about becoming a TA, here’s what schools expect:
● A clear CV highlighting any child-related experience (volunteering, coaching, youth groups, mentoring)
● Evidence of safeguarding awareness and willingness to undertake training
● A DBS check (Disclosure and Barring Service) to work with children
● Flexibility and reliability — schools look for people they can depend on daily
At Dunbar, we help candidates refine their CVs, prepare for interviews, and complete compliance quickly so they’re ready to start
Why Work with Dunbar Education?
We’re not just about filling vacancies. We:
● Place TAs in schools where they’ll be supported and developed
● Offer guidance on training, safeguarding, and professional growth
● Have strong relationships with schools across London, the Home Counties, the Midlands, and beyond
● Share opportunities that are not advertised publicly
Your Next Step
If you’re ready to start your career as a Teaching Assistant, now is the perfect time. Demand for TAs has never been higher, particularly in primary schools and SEN settings.
📩 Register with Dunbar Education today and let us help you take the first step: https://dunbareducation.com/register
