Teaching Assistants (TAs) help pupils make progress — academically, socially and emotionally — while keeping lessons running smoothly. You’ll work closely with the class teacher, support individuals and small groups, and play a key role in behaviour, inclusion and safeguarding.

Your core responsibilities

• Support pupils 1:1 and in small groups (phonics, reading, writing, maths, catch-up).
• Model tasks, check understanding and scaffold learning during whole-class teaching.
• Prepare and tidy resources; set up learning areas and displays.
• Run or support interventions (phonics/reading groups, maths facts, handwriting).
• Promote positive behaviour and routines; help de-escalate low-level disruption.
• Supervise pupils at break, lunch, clubs and on trips.
• Record observations and contribute to pupil progress notes.
• Champion inclusion — adapt tasks and environment for SEND learners.

Want the full breakdown of job titles and responsibilities? See TA Job Titles Decoded: TA vs LSA vs SEN TA vs HLTA.

How you’ll work with the teacher

Great TA–teacher partnerships start before the lesson. You’ll pre-brief key objectives, who needs what support, and the success criteria. During the lesson, you’ll circulate, prompt and reteach in the moment; afterwards, you’ll give concise feedback that informs next steps. For practical ways to add maximum value, read Effective TA–Teacher Teamwork.

Behaviour & relationships

TAs are central to a calm, positive classroom. You’ll use routines, proximity, specific praise, non-verbal cues and short, clear directions. You’ll also help with restorative conversations and de-escalation when needed. Start with our Behaviour Management Basics for TAs.

Supporting interventions

Many TAs deliver structured programmes for phonics, reading fluency and maths. You’ll follow a simple, repeatable routine: brief teach, guided practice, independent try, quick check. See Supporting Phonics, Reading & Maths Interventions.

Inclusion & SEND

You’ll adapt instructions, break tasks into steps, use visuals and reduce cognitive load. Collaboration with the SENCO, therapists and families is common. Explore roles and routes in What Does an SEN Teaching Assistant Do?.

Safeguarding (non-negotiable)

All TAs are responsible for safeguarding. Know your school’s procedures, recognise concerns and report promptly to the DSL (Designated Safeguarding Lead). You can read the statutory guidance here: Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE).

Typical day (example)

• 08:15 Set up resources, quick plan with teacher.
• 09:00 Whole-class input — you circulate, prompt, note misconceptions.
• 09:30 Guided group (phonics/reading/maths intervention).
• 10:30 Break duty, informal pupil check-ins.
• 11:00 In-class support; quick evidence notes for portfolios.
• 12:00 Lunch duty / nurture club.
• 13:00 Practical/creative session — help with resources and behaviour routines.
• 15:00 Tidy, brief feedback to teacher, prep for tomorrow.

Hours, contracts & progression

Many roles are term-time only with annualised pay. See Term-Time Only Roles Explained and Teaching Assistant Salary & Hours in England. Thinking longer-term? Read From TA to HLTA.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between TA, LSA and HLTA?

Titles vary by school. Broadly, TAs support learning in class and small groups; LSAs often focus on specific pupils (e.g., SEND); HLTAs can plan/deliver learning and sometimes cover classes. See Job Titles Decoded.

Do TAs ever teach whole classes?

Some do — especially HLTAs or experienced TAs under teacher direction — for short cover, interventions, or small-group teaching.

What hours do TAs work?

Many roles are term-time only, often between 16–36 hours per week, with pay spread over 12 months. See Term-Time Only Roles Explained and Salary & Hours.

How can I prepare before I start?

Read your school’s behaviour and safeguarding policies, complete any pre-reading, and practise core routines. If you’re still applying, secure a placement and complete your DBS: Voluntary Work in a School and DBS Checks for TAs.

Do I need strong English & maths?

You’ll support literacy and numeracy daily. Many schools prefer GCSE English/Maths or Level 2 Functional Skills. See What qualifications do I need?.